Quebec’s new tipping and grocery pricing rules spark a debate in B.C. over fair tipping practices and consumer transparency at checkout.
As of this week, Quebec has implemented new laws governing tipping and grocery price displays — moves aimed at protecting consumers from subtle manipulation at checkout. The question now echoing across the country: Should British Columbia adopt similar reforms?
Neutral Tipping Options Now Mandatory in Quebec
The new law mandates that all tipping prompts must be neutral and uniform—meaning merchants can no longer preset higher gratuity percentages to nudge customers into tipping more. Additionally, tips must be calculated on pre-tax prices, not the post-tax total.
This effort seeks to curb the growing frustration among consumers who feel pressured by digital terminals displaying escalating tip suggestions.
Vancouver Restaurateur Backs Pre-Tax Tipping
George Siu, founder of Memphis Blues Barbeque House in Vancouver, welcomes the idea of tipping on the net amount.
“I don’t think that should be an issue,” said Siu, who believes tipping culture took a turn during the pandemic when restaurants, struggling to stay afloat, began raising minimum tip defaults.
But now, he argues, tipping is losing its original intent — to reward excellent service.
“Sometimes there’s lackadaisical service because they know they’re guaranteed 20 percent. I’m not a fan of that,” he added.
Restaurant Association Cautions Against Copy-Paste Policies
Ian Tostenson, President of the B.C. Restaurant and Food Services Association, believes Quebec’s policy may not be a good fit for B.C. However, he echoes Siu’s sentiment: tips should reflect service quality.
“If you’re unhappy with service, don’t tip — but do let the manager know why,” said Tostenson.
Grocery Pricing Rules: Transparency Takes Priority
Quebec’s reforms also target grocery and convenience store pricing. Stores are now required to:
- Display the unit price (e.g., per 100g or per litre)
- Show price differences for customers without loyalty programs
These steps aim to give shoppers a clearer understanding of real costs, regardless of whether they’re part of a store’s reward system.
What’s Next for B.C.?
In British Columbia, Attorney General Nikki Sharma confirmed that her team is reviewing Quebec’s reforms to assess their relevance and applicability in B.C.
“We are looking closely at Quebec’s law and considering whether B.C. could implement the same rules,” Sharma noted.
A Shift Toward Fairness or Regulatory Overreach?
As digital payment systems grow increasingly complex, calls for ethical design and fair tipping are gaining momentum. Whether British Columbia will follow Quebec’s lead remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: the conversation around gratuities and pricing transparency is far from over.
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