Starbucks employees left feeling uncomfortable by ‘awkward’ tipping system
Callum Jones
Featured Image Credit: Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images/TikTok/@greenfanclub
While tipping may be prevalent across the globe, there is no doubt there is a certain kind of tipping culture in the US.
We've heard some pretty wild tipping stories across the US in recent times, including a delivery driver who was fired for his response to an underwhelming tip.
And with the increasing demand to tip, some establishments have even added credit and debit card options for leaving tips.
Starbucks introduced a tipping system that allowed those paying for their coffee with card to leave the barista a tip.
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The system, which rolled out across the US in 2022, prompts customers who paid by card to leave a $1, $2, 'other amount' or 'no tip'.
While some customers have been left a little frustrated from the prompt to tip, it has also left a sour taste in workers' mouths too.
In a viral video uploaded by the TikToker Rylee (@greenfanclub), the Starbucks worker showcased a series of embarrassing reactions as she prepared to hand over the card reader to the customer. Watch it below:
In the comments section, Rylee noted that 'unfortunately we can’t [turn the option off] I wish we could'.
Thousands have flocked to the comments section of the TikTok video since it was uploaded in late 2022.
Many suggested that Starbucks should just simply pay their staff more rather than them having to rely on tips.
"This tipping thing is way outta hand now. I make sure to absolutely destroy the no tip button at every location I go to," one person penned.
"Did Starbucks really add a tipping service?!?! They just need to pay their employees more via their ridiculously expensive products," a second added.
"Companies are banking on us feeling awkward and tipping so they don’t have to pay employees properly. HIT NO TIP!!!!!!" a third implied.
UNILAD has contacted Starbucks for a comment.
Speaking to the Daily Dot, Rylee said: "We don’t really have that many issues technological-wise, but it’s very awkward when we have to mention it.
"Every time someone uses their credit card, this tipping system pops up before they can move on and actually pay. I’ve had some people be rude about it and think it’s ridiculous, others glad that we have the option in place."
She added: "As baristas, me and my friends agree that holding out the entire pin pad out the window is super awkward for us, and on top of that makes people weirded out.
"Personally, it feels like we’re almost desperate-looking when we have to do this."