Tipflation: The conflagration of inflation and out-of-control tip requests

This data-supported opinion piece seeks to shed light on the growing phenomenon of tipflation, examine how this influences customers, and suggest alternatives to current tipping practices. To support the concepts highlighted, a simple survey consisting of seven pointed questions were asked of participants to discern their thoughts on current tipping trends. Participants were also asked to disclose their age and whether they had worked in a tipped position previously to determine if these factors influenced responses. Findings reveal that those who worked as tipped employees exercised different practices toward tipping than those who did not. Technological solutions, policy changes, and changes to menu pricing are viable solutions to the current tipping issue of tipflation in the United States.