As a part of America’s tipping culture, service workers have come to expect a tip after providing a good service. However, Americans are increasingly beginning to say no to tipping when it is prodded and expected everywhere they go.
Whether it’s perennially expected 10% or 20% in a restaurant, gratuity included on bills even before the quality of the service is known, or auto-added tips on delivery food orders, Americans are beginning to fight back against being told where and how much to tip. In many cases, this is becoming especially true among younger generations like millennials.
One major reason for this is the perception of tipping as an uneven playing field. Despite the U.S. minimum wage being $7.25 per hour, the federal wage for tipped workers is $2.13. Many millennials, raised on newly popularized ethical and socially conscious ideals, believe tipping should not be necessary and that workers should be paid a livable wage no matter their industry.
However, there is valid concern among restaurant owners and workers that limited amounts of tipping will hurt their business. Many endure the stressful, hard work of being a server, dishwasher, or in another service position, and survive on tips as the wages they receive are often not enough to cover necessary living expenses. In fact, due to low base wages, some estimates suggest those employed in the food service industry are twice as likely to live in poverty when compared to other industries.
The tipping dilemma has caused a significant and ongoing divide in the US. Those against tipping feel it is unfair and inconsistent, while those employed in the food service industry feel there is a reliance on tips to make a living wage.
Ultimately, it is clear that tipping in the service industry will remain a controversial issue, with no one answer or solution to be seen in the near future.
This article is adapted from https://godzillanewz.com/prodded-everywhere-to-tip-americans-often-say-no/.