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2h ago

Waterloo Pub Adds Automatic 4% 'Optional' Fee to Bar Orders

Consumer backlash highlights a wider shift toward tip prompts at the bar enabled by cashless payments.

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Customers have to opt out of the bar service charge, which some find awkward
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Overview

  • The Well & Boot at London’s Waterloo Station is automatically adding a 4% service charge to drinks and food ordered at the bar, presented as optional.
  • The fee is applied by default and removed only if customers object, with small signage stating "100% of all tips go to our staff" and a cashless payment policy.
  • A pint listed at £7.65 rises to £7.95 once the 30p charge is added, while a £12.50 cocktail carries a 50p fee.
  • Consumer advocates Martin Quinn and Martyn James criticised the practice, calling it "insidious" and questioning tipping for bar service.
  • SumUp reports a more than one‑third rise in suggested tips and a 12% uptick in pubs using card prompts over two years, as operators face higher costs and staffing challenges; Glendola Leisure has not responded to requests for comment.