‘It’s ridiculous’: Why some Canadian youth feel ready to tap out of tipping culture

Young Canadians say constant tip prompts, even at self-serve counters, are pushing them to question a culture they see as outdated and economically unfair.

Ren Alva is no stranger to leaving a good tip.

The Edmonton university student believes in tipping service workers for a job well done, even leaving more during the holidays and after special events.

But the 22-year-old from Bahrain was taken aback during a recent visit to a U-pick berry farm, where he and his friends were asked to leave a tip at checkout.

“We did the picking ourselves,” said Alva. “They didn’t have to do anything.

“I don’t know who the money’s going to.”

In a similar fashion, Jacob Burris said he only tips at dine-in restaurants in and around his home in Saint John, N.B., and bases the amount he leaves on the quality of the service.

“Tips should not be given for someone simply doing their job,” the 24-year-old said.

As Canada’s cost of living soars — and restaurant gratuities see a similar increase — Alva and Burris are just two of several Canadian youth who say they’re nearing their tipping point with tipping.