Has the practice of tipping gotten out of hand?
Videos by Wide Open Country
It certainly seems so, according to David Pakman. In a viral monologue, the radio host says that requests for tips at coffee shops, ride-shares, retail stores, and Botox injectors prove that things have gotten "out of control."
The Radio Host Calls Tipping Culture "Disgusting"
Pakman says he always tips, even though the suggested amount keeps creeping up. He noticed that some outlets are asking customers to tip 25-30% for service.
"This entire system isn't good for workers," says the host at one point. "Tipping shifts responsibility from the employer to the customer. It makes income unpredictable."
And as expectations for the amount customers should tip rise, the service customers receive continues to decline. He notes that baristas at coffee shops expect a tip, yet all they actually do is take an order at the counter.
"The issue is the system is broken, and it is disgusting," Pakman says
The host's viewpoint has gained traction. His video now has nearly 850,000 views on YouTube, and many of his viewers believe he has a point.
"I agree with you wholeheartedly. Here in a suburb of Chicago, I can go into a bakery, request my items, and then on the payment screen, they are asking for a tip," one viewer wrote. "I didn't sit down, I just asked for a couple sweet rolls, and they want a tip. It makes no sense whatsoever."
Pakman Isn't Alone
Last week, we reported on a viral video that sparked debate over whether Papa John's should reconsider its messaging about tipping your driver.
On the front of the chain's pizza boxes, there is a message that reads, "Delivery fee is not a tip. Please reward your driver for outstanding service."
A TikTok user then criticized the statement and tipping culture, clarifying that tips are not paychecks and calling for companies like Papa John's to pay workers more for their work.
One commenter agreed, writing, "Companies telling us to tip their workers knowing they won't pay them is crazy lol."
