Shake Shack Founder Challenges Tipping Culture and Obligations

Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer stated that there is no obligation to tip for drive-thru orders, emphasizing that it is a simple transaction. This comes as many Americans express discomfort and uncertainty about tipping for takeout. While some consumers may feel justified in not tipping, the question of how much to tip still remains. Companies like Starbucks have implemented tipping systems for drive-thru orders, while others, like South Park creators Matt Stone and Trey Parker, have eliminated tipping altogether and opted for higher hourly wages. Meyer, who has a history with tipping, eliminated it at his restaurants in 2015 but reintroduced it during the pandemic, with the goal of sharing tips among the entire team.