tips

Most diners now tip 20% or more, finds survey

It seems many diners are now being more generous with their gratuities, as a new report has found that the majority of patrons now tip 20 per cent or more.

A survey of U.S. consumers conducted by Popmenu found that 58 per cent of consumers say they have increased the amount they typically tip servers and delivery drivers during the pandemic. In addition, 30 per cent say they tip the same as they did pre-pandemic.

In particular, 56 per cent report that they tip servers 20 per cent or more and one-fifth of consumers tip 25 per cent or more.

That’s not just limited to indoor dining, either.

38 per cent say they tip delivery drivers 20 per cent or more, while 61 per cent say they typically give drivers at least 15 per cent.

Customers have been proactive in supporting their local restaurants, among other businesses, throughout the pandemic, and this data seems to suggest that sentiment continues with tipping. Similarly, spending on gift cards and ordering delivery directly through a restaurant remain popular as consumers continue to give restaurants their business.

The generosity of tipping may also be propagated by the fact that restaurant workers are now classed and acknowledged as essential workers as a result of the exposure many of them have faced through the pandemic.