The coffee giant’s card-based tipping prompts raise eyebrows and spark debate over fair wages.

Starbucks, the renowned coffee chain, has stirred up a froth of controversy with its newly implemented tipping system, leaving both employees and customers feeling uneasy. The tipping culture, deeply ingrained in the US, has taken a new turn with Starbucks’ introduction of a card-based tipping option, rolled out nationwide in 2022.

The system prompts customers paying with a card to leave a tip of $1, $2, an ‘other amount,’ or opt for ‘no tip.’ While intended to provide a convenient way for patrons to show appreciation, the feature has brewed more than just coffee, leading to frustration and awkward interactions.

Employees, like Rylee, who spoke to the Daily Dot, have expressed their discomfort with the system. “It’s very awkward when we have to mention it,” she said. The tipping prompt appears before the payment can be completed, leading to some customers reacting rudely or feeling pressured.

The TikTok community has also weighed in, with a video on the topic garnering thousands of comments. Many argue that Starbucks should focus on paying their staff better wages instead of relying on tips. “This tipping thing is way outta hand now,” one user wrote, echoing the sentiment of hitting the ‘no tip’ button in protest.

Critics argue that companies are exploiting the awkwardness of the situation to avoid paying employees adequately. “Companies are banking on us feeling awkward and tipping so they don’t have to pay employees properly,” another commenter pointed out.

The debate extends beyond the discomfort of the tipping prompt to broader issues of fair wages and the responsibilities of corporations to their employees. As Starbucks faces scrutiny, the conversation around tipping culture and employee compensation in the service industry continues to brew.