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Shake Shack denies charging customers more for skipping the tip. Has tipping gotten 'out of control'?
Yahoo • • business
Key Points:
- A couple at Salt Lake City International Airport claimed their Shake Shack order price increased by 50 cents per item after they declined to tip at a self-service kiosk, sparking an online debate about tipping culture.
- Shake Shack clarified that the price increase was due to a kiosk technology error by their licensee HMSHost, not a policy to raise prices when no tip is added, and the issue has since been resolved.
- The incident highlights growing frustration with tipping culture in the US, where surveys show many Americans believe tipping expectations have expanded and some consider it "out of control," especially with the rise of tip prompts at self-service points.
- Despite widespread annoyance, tipping remains deeply ingrained in American dining culture, with experts noting that while tipping is optional at fast-food and takeout venues, customary percentages apply for sit-down service and delivery.
- Research indicates many Americans find tipping guidelines confusing, and while some favor fixed service fees or higher menu prices over tipping, most are unlikely to change their dining habits significantly in response.
