Why the surprise introduction of this American custom at Australian KFC outlets has some foodies in stitches, while others are at a turning point

KFC is known for its finger-licking fried chicken, but staff at one of the chain’s Australian branches have been left angry after asking customers for change.

Foodies in Sydney were divided when they spotted a brightly coloured tip jar prominently displayed on the counter of a city centre restaurant.

Many critical guests of the chain were confused when a photo of the jar appeared on social media on Friday.

Some users were strongly against the idea of ​​introducing a US-style tipping system in Australia, while others supported the idea of ​​helping low-paid workers in the food industry.

“How did tipping culture enter Australia?” one person wrote.

And another said: ‘KFC workers earn way more than they get paid… it’s always a disaster there.’

Another online critic claimed that tipping fast food restaurant workers only encourages employers to pay them as little as possible.

“Okay, then make sure you don’t tip them. Don’t compensate their employer for paying them low wages,” they replied.

The appearance of a tip jar at a KFC branch in Sydney has caused a stir among customers

A KFC spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia the tip jar, also known as the ‘coin jar’, was to raise money for the KFC Youth Foundation.

“KFC currently holds a biennial fundraiser to raise money for the KFC Youth Foundation, which supports young people’s mental health and wellbeing,” the spokesperson said.

‘The coin box was intended to receive donations for the fundraiser. Although the team meant well, the coin box should have been labeled as such.

‘KFC does not accept tips in addition to payments in any of its restaurants.’

Tip jars have been a fixture in cafes across Australia for many years.

But the idea of ​​introducing them to fast food restaurants made many diners uncomfortable, and online debate raged over whether they were appropriate.

“I really can’t help but think that if we give in to the tipping culture we’re heading towards an American system and we’ll see their shit fall apart,” wrote one KFC customer.

“If you think it’s meant to compensate low-paid workers, then maybe you belong in America,” added another.

However, other chicken lovers said they didn’t quite understand what everyone was hating about it.

‘A) tipping is not new in Australia, b) you still don’t have to do it, c) even in the US tipping is not expected at fast food restaurants [and] d) we are in a cost of living crisis and you feel like the cost is much higher if you have a crappy minimum wage job,’ one wrote.

“Honestly, it’s a bit more personal than being asked for permission during the ordering process through an app,” added a second.

Some social media users have criticized the tip jar due to the cost of living crisis, while others said they had no problem with it at all (stock photo)

One worldly-wise user suggested that the divide may have been generational, as younger Australians increasingly adopted American ways.

‘Maybe I’m getting old, but there was a time when the idea of ​​tipping was met with a lot of opposition in Australia, so I’m honestly shocked that there are people who now advocate it here,’ he wrote.

‘Maybe times have changed, for better or for worse, I still don’t know.’