Overview

• A hospitality worker named Maya posted a TikTok complaining that young diners rarely tip and claiming tips are a main reason to work in gastronomy, drawing heavy criticism from users and some service staff who say tipping should not be expected.
• Many commenters point to rising prices and inflation to explain tighter tipping, while others argue that fair pay should come from employers rather than relying on customer generosity.
• DEHOGA NRW reiterates that voluntary tips are tax‑free for employees and cannot be withheld by employers, and notes a slight decline in average tipping to about seven percent with preset amounts on card terminals dividing opinions.
• Card payments are reshaping practice as some guests doubt whether digital tips reach staff, though modern POS systems can separate tips at 0% VAT, owners may incur card fees on tips, and pooled distributions can change the tax treatment.
• Coverage contrasts Germany’s norms with the United States’ expectations and notes that tipping is uncommon or minimal in places like China, South Korea and the Nordic countries.