Should we be tipping?
Summary
Andrea Gilligan discusses the rising pressure to tip in UK and Irish pubs, citing a survey showing 31% of UK pubs prompt customers for tips at the bar. Guests Michael Coyne, a pub owner, and Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurant Association of Ireland, debate whether tipping should remain voluntary and how it differs between table service and counter orders. The segment also covers listener reactions to tip prompts on card machines, the distinction between service charges and tips, and the impact of taxation on staff earnings.
Topics discussed
Intro: Tipping habits and UK survey on pub pressure
Michael Coyne: Voluntary tipping at a Connemara gastropub
Discussion on card machine prompts and service expectations
Adrian Cummins: Tipping norms across pubs, cafes, and restaurants
Regional differences and the impact of tourist tipping cultures
Tourist vs local tipping and the taxation of tips
Listener texts: Specific cafe charges and personal tipping rules
Service charge vs tips and listener anecdotes on embarrassment
Outro and advertisement for BKF Sea cruise
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