Is tipping getting out of control? Many consumers say yes (apnews.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the growing concern that tipping is getting out of control, with many consumers feeling pressured to leave large tips for services such as food delivery and ride-hailing. Some argue that tipping has become a mandatory expectation rather than a voluntary gesture of appreciation. The practice of adding a tip before service is rendered is particularly contentious. This has led to a reevaluation of the role of tipping in the service industry.

Main themes

• tipping culture
• service industry wages
• consumer pressure
• digital tipping
• fair labor practices
• cultural norms

What commenters say

• Tipping should be a voluntary gesture of appreciation, not a mandatory expectation.
• The practice of adding a tip before service is rendered is unfair and should be abolished.
• Businesses should pay their employees a decent wage instead of relying on tips to make up for low wages.
• Tipping is a cultural norm in the US that will not be changed by raising wages or prices.
• The use of digital tipping prompts can create pressure on consumers to leave larger tips.
• Some argue that tipping is a way to reward good service, while others see it as a way to transfer wealth from the charitable to the uncharitable.
• The current tipping system can lead to inconsistent and unfair treatment of workers, with some receiving large tips and others receiving little to nothing.
• Raising wages and eliminating tipping would be a more equitable solution for workers and consumers alike.