San Diego's American Comedy Company Facing Backlash For Including Tip Line In Online Ordering System

May 23, 2024

San Diego's American Comedy Company is facing backlash for its decision to include a gratuity line within its online ticket ordering system.

Many believe that tip culture in the United States has spiraled out of control. While tipping was originally intended as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service, it has seemingly mutated into an obligatory practice fraught with ambiguity and inconsistency. Critics argue the burden now falls disproportionately on consumers, who are expected to supplement the wages of service industry workers. In recent years, many memes have circulated around social media making fun of the common practice of a cashier "flipping around the iPad" to reveal a tip request. 

Now one local San Diego business is facing online criticism for putting a tip line on its website's ticket sales platform. A Reddit thread on a San Diego subreddit revealed the practice by American Comedy Co., and the post quickly racked up negative comments criticizing the laugh house and its ownership. 
"Look, I'm a delivery driver, and I think you should always tip your delivery drivers, servers, and maybe your hairstylist depending on if you believe you received a good service," wrote one commenter. "But this the dumbest thing I've ever seen in my life."

Founded in 2012 by husband-and-wife duo Justin and Rebekah Hollister, American Comedy Company has been a fixture on Sixth Avenue in downtown San Diego. Justin's prior experience running an improv comedy club in San Jose, CA, for six years allowed him to foster relationships with numerous comedians over the years, laying the foundation for the venue's success.

The American Comedy Co. is located at 818 Sixth Avenue in downtown San Diego. For more information, visit americancomedyco.com.