Debate on tipping – Should you have to tip at self-checkout kiosks?

There are many businesses in Michigan where tipping is customary and expected, however, after a recent experience, I believe tipping in Michigan is really getting out of control.

Hang in there, this is a bit of a rant, but I’m sure you’ll agree with me.

The tipping culture is getting out of control

I was at a Detroit Tigers game recently when I got thirsty. And as you do when you’re thirsty, I went to get a drink. At Comerica Park, they have these new areas where you can just walk up, get a drink from a cooler, go through the self-checkout and drive off. It’s very quick and convenient if you just want a quick bottle of water.

And this is where the tirade comes into play:

When I completed my transaction (for my $6 bottle of water, mind you), I was asked at the self-checkout kiosk if I wanted to tip.

Tip who? Who the hell am I tipping here? Because as far as I know, I handled the entire transaction myself…

No one helped me. No one checked me out. No one made me a cocktail. No one had to reach to the top shelf to get me something. I just opened the fridge door, grabbed a bottle of water and checked myself out.

So I ask again: Who do I tip?

Honestly, you should tip me at this point since I handled the entire transaction by myself.

Who should you tip?

Overall, I follow the tipping culture; I tip my bartender, my waiter, my hairdresser, and a whole host of other service workers. But that’s the point: I tip service workers, and in this case, no one did me a service. So I guess I’ll keep my money this time, Comerica Park. Besides, you charged $6 for a bottle of water, I’m sure you make enough profit that I don’t need to tip employees who do nothing for me.

Okay, enough talk. If you’re still with me at this point, thank you for sticking around this long. You can now return to your regular program.