A revealing study from RSM UK shows that more than 20% of UK diners are dodging the optional service charges that appear on their bills.
Skyrocketing living costs and disappointments in service standards are leading factors behind customers deciding to skip out on these charges.
The topic of tipping in the UK is a hot potato, with many patrons favoring the freedom to tip based on their experience, rather than feeling coerced into paying a predetermined fee. Some restaurant owners are listening, choosing not to build a service charge into the bill and leaving the decision to tip in the hands of the consumer.
Transitioning from cash to card has introduced a lag in staff receiving their gratuities, causing further ripples in the conventional dining landscape.
From October 1, new laws will be implemented which aim to guarantee a fair split of all gratuities, including service charges, among team members.
While most customers are agreeable to service charges for stellar service, there’s a rising sentiment that good service should be an anticipated standard, covered by the employee’s salary.
Some diners are even proposing a complete abolition of tipping and service charges, instead arguing for fair employee wages incorporated into the menu prices.
The changing views on tipping and service charges are indicative of a yearning for a more sincere, less cringe-worthy dining experience.
