Tipping culture has become a rule, rather than an act of appreciation for exceptional service. The current system, where tips are expected and even added to the bill automatically, is a deviation from the intended purpose of tips: to give thanks for excellent service. Tipping puts pressure on people and makes them feel uncomfortable and it is not always passed on to staff appropriately. In countries such as Japan tipping is considered an insult and is not expected in any circumstances. In countries where it is expected there are constantly stories about the problems it has caused. People can be offended if they feel the wrong amount has been left, workers can become reliant on receiving set amounts and can have financial difficulties if they don't get it, wealthier people can try to flaunt their money to try to get better service... There are countless problems due to tipping and the world would be a happier place without it.

Indeed, the Bureau of Labor Statistics states that a significant percentage of a food server's income comes from tips (Statistics on Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2020). Yet, tips should not be a fundamental aspect of employees' salaries, but rather a token of gratitude.

Moreover, the requirement of tipping puts a financial burden on consumers, making them responsible for part of the wages that employers should be providing. It has also been termed as discriminatory as tips vary based on different factors not related to service quality (LYNN, M. 2015. ‘Tip Levels and Service: An Update, Extension and Reconciliation.’ Cornell Hospitality Quarterly, 56(2), pp. 294-298).

Removing tipping culture would not mean a decline in service quality. In fact, several studies have shown that there is no significant relationship between tipping and the quality of service (Azar, O.H., 2011. 'Do people tip strategically, to improve future service?'). Employers should take full responsibility for their employee wages, and excellent service should be rewarded at the customers' discretion, just as the original intention of tipping.

Join us in making this significant shift in the industry. We can change the culture, but we need your help. Sign our petition to abolish tipping culture.