Consumer group warns against restrictive digital tipping options in Germany

The Brandenburg Consumer Center has issued a warning against certain digital payment practices in the hospitality sector. Specifically, a Starbucks operator was reprimanded because their card terminals lacked an immediate, easily selectable option to decline a tip.

According to the consumer group, some displays only show preset percentages—sometimes as high as 30 percent—without a clear way to opt out. In response, the Hotel and Restaurant Association (Dehoga Berlin) stated that payment systems must ensure tipping remains a voluntary gesture. To maintain transparency, terminals should offer the explicit choice of ‘No tip’ or the ability to enter a specific custom amount.