...that is the question.
I've been going to the same grocery store for years now, and always utilize the drive-up bagging service they provide for large quantities of bags. In a conversation last year, a friend was startled that I don't tip the guy who throws my bags in the car. I hadn't ever thought about it, but since she had called it to my attention, I thought I'd be vigilant to see if anyone else tips the bagger. Either EVERY shopper is SUPER stealth about forking over a tip, or I'm not the only one that doesn't shell out.
Given the fact that taking carts out of the store in order to load your own groceries is not an option, I thought I was safe in assuming this is a service of convenience provided by this high-end grocery store. However, it bothers me every time I drive up now. Are the baggers thinking "here comes that white SUV with the jerk lady that doesn't tip"?
Etiquette, anyone?
9 comments:
First, I've never heard of that, it's probably because we live in So Cal and temps don't go below 50's often.
If it is a service performed outside the ordinary then yes, tipping is probably appreciated. The closest thing I can analogize that to here would be going to the market, they bag your groceries like normal.
After they're done they ask if you need help out to your car. Now I know it's part of their job description but it seems like an out of the ordinary service so in that case a tip would be appropriate.
Beyond that I tend to tip when I notice someone going above and beyond and providing good service and maybe not being appreciated.
I went to a restaurant the other day, ordered togo, while I was there a family barged in and were extremely rude to the server/owner and I was annoyed with their lack of respect/etiquette and I could tell he was also however he remained calm and smiled through the nearly 10 minute ordeal.
During that time my food came up, he saw and when he could get away from the crazy table he rushed over to the counter and bagged my order up. I made a quick comment about the rude family and then put a few dollars on the counter and simply said thank you have a good evening took my bag and left.
I agree, Angelo. However, it's a little different than your grocery parallel because in that case you have the option to do it yourself, or to accept his help- in which case, a tip would be appropriate. If drive-up is our ONLY option, does every shopper need to tip on every trip to the store? They are very quick to close the door and there's never an awkward linger, so it doesn't seem like they're expecting it... It IS, however, a wonderfully convenient service. It's definitely one of the reasons I continue to shop there!
I read about tipping people who took your groceries out to the car for you, but when I tired to do that the next time he refused saying it was store policy not to accept tips. So I wouldn't feel bad. I guess you could call the store to find out their policy, or just live in ignorance and save money;)
Ah, see I am totally not familiar with that type of service.
So then, If it's a required or regular service there's no tip necessary, unless you feel the bagger/loader is such a nice person or doing an exceptional job and you want to thank them further.
I'd say, get your groceries and drive off, no guilt.
When I lived in So. Cal. 28 yrs ago, my girl friend always went to a grocery like that when she had the two toddlers in tow; no tip was expected and she never did. Rosa
We have a grocery chain here that has outstanding service. They push my cart out for me, chatting it up with Catherine while they do, and when we arrive at our car parked in the specially marked "customer with children" space, they quickly load the groceries while I strap in the kiddo. It's just part of their great service, and they can't take tips. That's a good suggestion about calling the store, thought. It might put your mind at ease that they aren't thinking you're the cheap lady :)
I hardly ever carry cash, so when I do, I usually tip the guy a dollar, but that happens VERY rarely. Especially since I usually never take the guy or girl up on the offer to help me to my car. Maybe in the future when I have a lot of bags and/or a child that will change. I wouldn't feel bad about it. Just your smiling face and a "thank you" is good enough : )
I wouldn't feel guilty. Maybe at Christmas time, or if there is a specific person you feel is extra friendly or going above and beyond their duties but...if there is no other option than to use this service, I would not feel like I have to tip. And i would assume you are not the only one. Old people are notorious for not tipping and for being cheap tippers. So at least you are in good company with them! I certainly wouldn't shop there if I was expected to tip every time!
Though I can't say that I'm in the same situation you are, file this away under "Things to consider on a bigger spectrum that I could possibly reference when trying to make a decision on a smaller scale":
In Thailand we don't tip anyone. Ever. For anything. EXCEPT a cab if the fare comes to a number that is not divisible by 5, in which case he might get a few baht out of me. Otherwise, you just don't. Not even restaurants, unless the server gave you the Heimlich or something. Part of the reason for it, especially when it's something more ordinary, such as carrying something for you(luggage, groceries, etc.)is that if you were to tip them a small amount(thinking you're thanking them for lending a hand without buying them a steak dinner)it may offend or insult them, thus making the situation even more awkward and uncomfortable.
So sit back, enjoy the perk, and save your singles and spare change for the servers and cab drivers of America :D
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