New York City bars and restaurants are actively rolling out automatic 20% gratuities to checks during the FIFA World Cup to overcome a rise in international tourists who are failing to leave tips.
Hospitality workers across the city reported that while crowds are filling up seats and driving massive sales, many foreign fans are entirely unfamiliar with standard American tipping culture. To better protect the wages of servers, business owners, and more, they're planning to take matters into their own hands instead of letting staff face unpaid labor.
The problem arises from a huge cultural disconnect between international soccer fans and the unique financial structure of the American service industry. Nearly 1.2 million soccer fans are continually flooding the region for more matches at MetLife Stadium. Many are coming from nations where staff members are paid full living wages. Here, tips are also included in the bill or not expected at all.