Is tipping an expression of gratitude or a mandatory payment?

Is tip part of the chargeable fee? Is it mandatory or is it a social norm? If the institution expects the customer to tip, why not add that on the original bill?

Isn't the client paying for the product and service already? I love a gesture of appreciation for a good service , but if it's expected how can it be a gesture of gratitude.?

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smiler2012 · 56-60

{@renkon] think if you receive good service and people have gone over and above too provide this i think a little gratuity is not unreasonable for this

Renkon · 36-40, M

@smiler2012 That's true.
However, I have heard of situations where the personnel was rude because they were not properly tipped. It's as if it's theirright.

smiler2012 · 56-60

@Renkon there maybe a reason some do not tip tight fisted when the service had been excellent or just not happy with the service as you rightly point out personal choice

ninalanyon · 61-69, T

@smiler2012 Do you tip bus drivers? Supermarket cashiers? The employee in a big box store who leads you to the proper part of the store to find what you want to buy?

smiler2012 · 56-60

@ninalanyon no of course not in restaurants it is a sort of part of the service but i do understand what you mean why gratituities in that one area