I think the thing here is that technology in the form of headphones, portable devices, telework, etc. Allow people to share the conviviality of shared spaces but without giving back because they can isolate themselves --as they are wont to in their shared floorspaces at work.
So not interacting with someone else and just being immersed in oneself is okay because they are not aware of their surrounds except for when they glance up.
Before gadgets, you'd have to bring friends with you or meet friends (who would also buy things). But now you can buy some nominal item and excuse yourself for as long a you wish --at least in mind. And some people feel entitled to the space. The Starbucks of the world can carry that deadweight, but not so much independent shops.
So not interacting with someone else and just being immersed in oneself is okay because they are not aware of their surrounds except for when they glance up.
Before gadgets, you'd have to bring friends with you or meet friends (who would also buy things). But now you can buy some nominal item and excuse yourself for as long a you wish --at least in mind. And some people feel entitled to the space. The Starbucks of the world can carry that deadweight, but not so much independent shops.