Soho House Mexico City's PROFECO Shutdown: A Pattern of Overcharging and Member Frustrations Exposed
Recent reports indicate that Soho House & Co.'s Mexico City location faced a temporary suspension by Mexico's consumer protection agency, PROFECO, on October 31, 2025, over allegations of imposing mandatory service charges, which violate local laws requiring tips to be voluntary.[1][2] While the club appears to have resumed operations based on its official website listings, the incident has amplified long-standing grievances from members and guests about overcharging and subpar experiences.[3]
The PROFECO Intervention: What Happened?
PROFECO's action stemmed from consumer complaints regarding obligatory 'service charges' or tips at the club, contravening Article 10 of the Federal Consumer Protection Law, which prohibits coercive practices.[4] Seals were placed on the premises in Colonia Juárez, halting operations until compliance was achieved. Social media buzzed with the news, including posts highlighting the irony of such practices in an 'exclusive' venue.[5][6]
For context, Soho House & Co. positions itself as a haven for creatives, with the Mexico City outpost - its first in Latin America - opening in September 2023 in a historic building featuring bars, pools, and art collections.[7] Membership fees start at around MX$11,750 quarterly, promising premium experiences.[8] However, the suspension underscores a disconnect between branding and operational realities.
A History of Overcharging Allegations
Member reviews on platforms like Google Maps paint a troubling picture, with numerous accounts of overcharging predating the PROFECO action. Common complaints include:
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Unauthorized Charges: Guests report bills inflated with items not ordered, such as multiple bottles of champagne or drinks. One reviewer claimed, 'They charged 20 bottles of champagne we never ordered,' while another noted a tab escalating to MX$60,000 for unrequested items.[9]
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Forced Tipping: Many describe mandatory 15-20% tips, even for self-service at the bar, aligning with PROFECO's findings. A guest recounted paying MX$350 for two beers and a Coke due to excessive charges.[9]
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Poor Value for Money: High prices for mediocre food and drinks are frequent gripes. Brunch buffets, costing up to MX$1,800, are criticized for lacking inclusions like mimosas, with additional beverages overpriced.[9][10]
These issues suggest a systemic problem, with reviewers warning against leaving tabs open, as 'ghost orders' appear rapidly. Social media echoes this, with TikTok videos and Instagram reels discussing the suspension and similar experiences.[5][6]
Embedded below is a relevant Instagram post from Publimetro MX detailing the suspension:
And a TikTok video from El Facto Noticias on the PROFECO action:
Broader Member Discontent
Beyond billing, reviews highlight rude staff, discrimination, and unsafe environments. Incidents of harassment, racial bias at entry, and untrained personnel are recurrent. One member described being denied entry despite guest passes, feeling 'discriminatory,' while another reported sexual harassment ignored by staff.[9]
Service lapses include long waits, forgotten orders, and dirty facilities, contrasting the club's luxury image. Long-time Soho House members compare it unfavorably to other locations, calling it 'the worst' in nine years of global visits.[9][11]
Implications for Soho House & Co.
This controversy could erode trust among the creative elite the club targets. With expansion amid financial pressures - like debt restructuring - such scandals risk alienating members.[12] Prospective applicants should note that memberships are handled solely via the official Soho House website.[13]
The incident raises questions about cultural adaptation in international markets. While the architecture earns praise, operational flaws suggest a need for better training and compliance.
In summary, the PROFECO suspension seems a symptom of deeper issues, with overcharging complaints dating back to the opening. Members' voices on review platforms and social media amplify calls for accountability.
Disclaimer: This article is an independent publication. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by Soho House & Co. Information is based on public sources and fair use principles for commentary and criticism. No endorsement is implied.
