Sophie-May Williams
Published December 1, 2025 4:24pm
Updated December 1, 2025 4:34pm
Share this article via whatsappShare this article via xCopy the link to this article.Link is copiedShare this article via facebook
Comment now
Comments
Click to see more
Back
Next
Calling all McDonald's fans, the fast food chain has a little-known rule that applies to both diners and staff. The beloved restaurant chain is famous for its budget prices and tasty meals, ranging from the iconic Big Mac to more limited edition items, like new McFlurry flavours just in time for Christmas. (Picture: Getty Images)
While Maccy's affordability has helped it reign supreme in the fast food world, the company is also secretly saving people cash in other ways, too. Let's unpack: In the UK, the concept of tipping isn't that big of a deal. You might leave an extra few pounds on a restaurant table if you enjoyed the meal, or you may add 10% onto a final bill as a token of appreciation for the service. (Picture: McDonald's UK)
However, in the US the etiquette around tipping is serious business. If you don't tip, you're deemed rude, and hospitality workers might even confront you about it. In the states, a minimum of 15 to 20% is standard for good service, with the latter seen as the new 'normal.' For exceptionally good service, customers often tip more. Many workers in the US rely on tips to top up their salary — and businesses often pay their staff less due to tipping culture. (Picture: Getty Images)
McDonald's actually has a rule in place that states workers aren't allowed to accept them. Its website states: 'Tips are not accepted as McDonald's restaurants have a team environment which is not about rewarding individuals. If a customer would like to make a donation then they can do so in the RMHC boxes.' (Picture: Anna Barclay/Getty Images)
McDonald's also has an opinion on the minimum wage in the US, revealing that it wants to end the tipped wage model. Last September, the fast food giant left the NRA (National Restaurant Association) in protest. The company's CEO, Chris Kempczinski, called the tipped wage model unfair and an 'uneven playing field' to workers and businesses such as McDonald's, as they don't rely on tips to meet minimum wage requirements. (Picture: Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Kempczinski spotlighted the disparity between the federal subminimum wage of $2.13 an hour and the federal minimum wage of $7.25. The former wage amount is why workers require the extra tips. The CEO said in a statement to CNBC last year: 'Part of what I think we need to do in this minimum wage conversation is, let’s start with everybody should be paying the same minimum wage, whether that’s tipped or non-tipped.' (Picture: Shutterstock)
He added that in some states, including Minnesota, Nevada, California, and Washington, they require employers to pay the full state minimum wage. Kempczinski said: 'Poverty levels decrease. We know that turnover levels go down. We know that actually it doesn’t lead to any job loss. So there’s already been a model that shows that tipped wages can be at the same as the federal minimum wage.' (Picture: Getty Images)
Well, there you have it. Next time you hit up your local chain for a Filet-O-Fish, McWrap, or a Quarter Pounder with Cheese, know that you couldn't tip even if you wanted to. But do consider contributing to Ronald McDonald House Charities, which works to support the health and wellbeing of children and their families. (Picture: Anna Barclay/Getty Images)
Back Back
Next GalleryNext Gallery
Back Back
Start
Start
Next
Next
More Trending
-
'Goosebump-inducing' Korean fried chicken chain to open flagship UK restaurant
Channel: Food Food 4 days ago By Jessica Lindsay - McDonald's menu gets major shake-up as limited-edition Christmas items hit the UK
- The UK is obsessed with fried chicken right now — and it's all to do with the economy
- McDonald's unveils Christmas menu with 'sensational' burger and Grinch 'adult Happy Meal'
Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Postcode ? DOB ? Email I agree to receive newsletters from Metro I agree to receive newsletters from Metro Sign UpSign UpThis site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy
