Have you ever wondered to yourself, “Why does it feel like I have to tip every single time I make any purchase?” Well, the good news is you’re not alone. Tipping culture has exploded post-pandemic and it has shoppers all over the country feeling squeezed. 

Now… crowds are starting to rebel against the old habit. 

When Did Shoppers Start To Resent Tipping?

After the pandemic, a phenomenon called “tip creep” began sneaking up on people at the cash register. Tip creep means more opportunities to tip for different services. This is why we see these pesky screens everywhere we go.

But as a result of an increase in tip screens, shoppers are starting to feel pressure through “guilt tipping”. This is when shoppers feel pressured to go out of their way to tip for a service that potentially didn’t need one. 

But people are starting to catch on… 

OVER THREE-FOURTHS OF THE COUNTRY AGREE THAT TIPPING HAS GOTTEN MORE THAN OUT OF HAND. 

And they’re not just imagining it. Before the pandemic began, transactions where tips were offered was 43.4%. In February 2023, that number jumped to 74.5%

Not to mention, these small amounts start to add up. Especially considering that predetermined tipping options often fall between 15% and 35% of your purchase. 

It seemed like the practice would’ve kept creeping up on us, but now shoppers are starting to fight back against the practice…

And they’re hitting them where it hurts. 

Consumers Fight Back

To protest the annoying habit, shoppers are refusing to give into guilt tipping.

On average, tip rates at full-service restaurants and quick-service restaurants are both down. 

But this behavior goes beyond just refusing to hit the 15% button, consumers are being more intentional and skeptical about when they participate in this culture. 

Experts advise people to tip when they want to express gratitude…

NOT TO TIP BLINDLY AT EVERY POINT OF SALE EVEN WHEN THEY ARE PROMPTED. 

Tipping is another contributor to the squeeze everyone is feeling on their wallets. These financial phenomena, along with shrinkflation…

Take away from people’s ability to manage their finances accurately. 

It’s hard to go against the grain, especially with something as common and socially accepted as giving tips…

But remember, next time you’re out buying groceries…

Confidence is the only thing you can’t buy.

Be Great, 

GCTV Staff

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