ASK Italian and Zizzi remove tips administration charges
The 249-strong company told BigHospitality's sister publication M&C Allegra Foodservice the decision came as part of an ongoing broader review of all pay, rewards and benefits, which commenced earlier this year when Azzurri Group underwent a change of ownership.
The company currently employs 5,000 people and serves 14 million customers a year.
The new tipping policy will see 100 per cent of all tips go to staff. The wider review of the way staff are rewarded, which will also include plans for the introduction of the National Living Wage, is expected to be completed by the end of October.
Steve Holmes, chief executive of Azzurri Group, said: “We wholeheartedly believe our employees are an essential part of our business and have always sought to reward them fairly. Our team members are crucial in delivering unparalleled customer service and ensuring that every customer’s experience at Zizzi and ASK Italian is a great one.
“The review into staff pay and benefits that begun earlier this year demonstrates our commitment to be recognised as a company that values and rewards our staff for their fantastic skills, loyalty and hard work.
“As a leader in the casual dining sector, we are wholly committed to following best practice as well as leading the way for other players in the industry.”
Earlier this week, PizzaExpress announced it will scrap its 8 per cent admin fee for tips paid through cards from next month. The company is introducing a new automated system to distribute tips across it 430 UK restaurants.
