The Impact of Global Coffee Culture on Local Transformation: The Case of Kaşüstü Neighborhood in Trabzon

Today, consumption has evolved from a purely economic activity into a cultural practice through which individuals construct their identities, solidify their social belonging, and make their social status visible. Globalization has played a significant role in this transformation, and the relationships individuals establish with products that transcend local boundaries have transformed consumption into a manifestation of identity. This influences not only daily life practices but also the shaping of urban spaces. The aim of the research is to discuss this transformation in urban spaces in the context of globalization and consumer culture through a local example. The primary research question of this study is how global consumer culture influences spatial and social transformation in local urban settings. This transformation—particularly shaped through the coffee culture—redefines the meaning, function, and user profile of space. In this direction, the global chain coffee shops that have recently opened in Kaşüstü, were examined. Employing qualitative research methodologies, data were collected through field observations and survey studies, and findings were interpreted through the lenses of sociological theories and spatial frameworks. The findings suggest that consumption activities extend beyond mere economic practices, playing a crucial role in identity formation, the establishment of social relationships, and processes of spatial transformation.