KFC is famous for its finger-licking-good fried chicken, but staff at one of the chain’s Australian outlets have come under fire for ordering diners small quantities.
Sydney foodies were left divided after noticing a brightly coloured tip jar had been prominently displayed on the counter of a city centre restaurant.
Many of the chain’s discerning diners were left confused when a photo of the jar appeared on social media on Friday.
Some users criticised the idea of encouraging a US-style tipping system in Australia, while others supported the idea of helping low-paid food industry workers.
“How has tipping culture crept into Australia?” one person wrote.
While another said: “KFC workers deserve much more than what they are paid… it’s always a disaster there.”
Another online critic claimed that tipping fast food staff only encouraged employers to pay them as little as possible.
“Okay, then make sure you don’t tip them. Don’t compensate their employer for paying them low wages,” they replied.
The appearance of a tip jar at a KFC outlet in Sydney has caused a stir among diners
Tip jars have been a fixture in cafes across Australia for years.
But introducing them into fast food establishments seems to be a new phenomenon, and one that many diners feel uncomfortable with.
While KFC did not respond to questions about its tipping culture from the Daily Mail Australia on Friday night, the debate was still raging online.
“I really can’t help but think that if we succumb to tipping culture, we’ll be hurtling into an American system and we’ll be able to see their shit falling apart,” wrote one KFC customer.
“If you think it’s there to compensate low-paid workers, then maybe you should live in the US,” added another.
However, other food lovers who adore chicken said they weren’t sure why everyone was so upset.
‘A) tipping is not new in Australia, b) it’s not yet mandatory, c) even in the US tipping at fast food places is not expected (and) d) we’re in a cost of living crisis and you feel that cost is much higher when you have a low quality casual job on minimum wage,’ wrote one.
“To be honest, it’s a bit more personal to be asked during the ordering process on an app,” added a second.
Some social media users criticized the tip jar amid the cost of living crisis, while others said they didn’t care at all (file photo)
One world-weary user suggested the divide was perhaps generational, with younger Australians increasingly adopting American customs.
“Maybe I’m getting old, but there was a time when the concept of tipping in Australia was met with massive backlash, so I’m honestly surprised there are people here defending it now,” he wrote.
‘Maybe times have changed, for better or worse, I’m not sure yet.’