Caffeine and Culture: Understanding Gen Z Work Ethos in Malang Coffee Shops

Abstract: This study examines the workplace culture experienced by Generation Z employees coffee shops in Malang, Indonesia. As digital natives, Gen Z workers highly prioritize flexibility, transparent communication, and a healthy work-life balance, prompting service-based businesses to rethink how they shape their organizational culture. Utilizing a qualitative approach and based on current theoretical frameworks in organizational behavior, the research explores how Gen Z employees interpret, engage with, and influence the cultural environment in creative and service-driven workplaces. Core elements identified include autonomy, collaborative teamwork, adaptable work schedules, and the alignment of work environments that foster emotional well-being, participative leadership, and spaces for personal expression. Conversely, workplaces characterized by rigidity or cultural misalignment often result in disengagement and dissatisfaction. This study enhances our understanding of generational dynamics within organizational workplaces for employers aiming to effectively engage and retain Gen Z talent in fast-paced, competitive industries.