Check out the Urgent Poll on the Restaurant page

[patsal]

I think this might change the perspective on value if it were to come to fruition.

[graeme1299]

Why is this poll so "urgent"?

[patsal]

I'm not sure, but based on the OP and a few responses I know they are from the "inside" so I'm thinking they must have heard rumors to the effect, and as servers they are concerned about the impact of these possible DDP changes.

[BratTink]

Honestly, I think initially the servers will lose out. I bet people just won't hear or realize that tips are not included.
And, I almost rather decide what to tip. I had HORRIBLE service in Italy at Alfredo's last year and would never have left 18%. I would have a left a tip, but much less.

[Merilyn]

Where is the poll? I don't know what page "patsal" is talking about.

[bicker]

There is no sound foundation for that poster's claim of urgency nor his claim that "the handwriting is on the wall". Not one person, at Disney nor at the union, has publicly said Word One about this kind of thing being within the realm of consideration during contract negotiations.

Please, folks, don't read between the lines. Take things at face value, and don't fall into a trap of getting yourself upset about something which is, at this point, nothing more than a random prognostication.

[gigi1313]

well said bicker :)

[Lewisc]

At least two servers sort of confirmed that Disney and union are in the process of negotating a new contract. It would make sense that the compensation for DDP guests would be "on the table".

The rate could go back to 15%, the automatic tip could be removed from the out of pocket check, Disney restaurants could just tip a flat dollar (based on an average check) as opposed to rewarding servers who encourage guests to over order....There are a lot of changes that might be made, short of completely removing the tip from the DDP.

My guess is Disney would like to reduce the server compensation but still market the plan to guests as "tip included."

[bicker]

Yup, this has now been corroborated by reliable sources as something being discussed. Thanks the CMs who confirmed this rumor. NOW we can get upset if we want to. :)

[Pooh Bear Hugs]

I think a flat tip is a good idea then everyone gets the same and servers don't push you to order more. Say the tip was $10 it wouldn't matter if I ordered a three course meal or just the entree. I don't eat a lot and hate wasting food .

[MaryFMac]

I don't think a flat rate for tip (i.e. 10 dollars for every DDP table, or 5 dollars per every DDP guest) is in the best interest for Disney if they want to maintain high service standards or encourage higher sales within their restaurants.

A flat rate will lead to exclusively volume-based service-- forget personality, conversation, recommendations. The server will adapt by getting you out and the next five dollar "head" in.

I have worked as a server in a fine-dining establishment, and I still do on occasion (its is a small, family-owned restaurant that will call me in during busy times.) While I love my guests, ultimately I am a salesperson. I am genuine, but I am not doing this for the love of foodservice. It is unreasonable to expect Disney servers to go the extra mile if there is little to no opportunity for the guest to compensate them (sure, we can all slide them extra cash, but I'd much prefer to write it on my room charge card.)

I'm not sure of the solution to the problem...Maybe to reduce the automatic gratuity (12-15%) and clearly state the percentage to guests on reciepts, then allow for an additional gratuity to be written on (either providing a credit card, or a room charge card)

I just don't know.