Save More, Spend Smarter

Posted on 3rd September 202411th December 2024 by Hannah Bray

Business

TiPJAR Wins UK Smart Grant to Supercharge Revolutionary Spend & Save Product for Hospitality Workers

The Fair Tip Act is just around the corner, and everyone is talking about it including the US election candidates! TiPJAR supports over 60,000 users and 12,000 operators to share fair and transparent tipping and help businesses reward and motivate their staff.

We’ve also got some huge news—TiPJAR has been handpicked by the UK government, out of thousands of applicants, to receive the UK Smart Grant! This isn’t just any grant; it’s the rocket fuel we need to launch our groundbreaking and pioneering Spend & Save product to tens of thousands of hospitality workers around the world.

So, what’s the big deal about Save & Spend? Glad you asked! It’s our latest and greatest invention that puts hospitality employees first, giving them limitless opportunities like never before. Here’s how it works:

Save: Employees can now hit the pause button on their tip payouts, whether they’re collected through QR codes, Tap to Tip machines, PDQs, or even via Supertronc. Instead of getting their tips right away, they can stash them in a savings pot and watch it grow—interest included! It’s like a piggy bank, but way cooler.

Spend: But wait, there’s more! When they’re ready to spend those hard-earned tips, they can do it with their very own TiPJAR card, and guess what? They’ll get cash-back at 1000s of high-street venues. Who wouldn’t want a slice of that action?

We weren’t kidding when we said we’re pioneering—nobody else is doing this! TiPJAR exists because tipping was broken, and we had the perfect fix. Now, with Save & Spend, we’re not just fixing it, we’re flipping it on its head and turning it into something incredible.

"TiPJAR has come so far in just 5 years, and I'm immensely proud of what we've achieved for tipped workers. With the launch of our 'Spend and Save' product, we're entering an exciting new phase. It's always been my vision for workers to maximize their tips, and this new feature is a crucial step in making that a reality."

James Brown

Co-founder - TiPJAR

"At Honest Burgers, we’re excited about TIPJAR’s new features that will directly benefit our teams. The ability to save tips within the app and earn interest has been a long-requested feature, and we’re thrilled it’s now becoming a reality. Additionally, the new TiPJAR card would allow our teams to spend their tips with ease and enjoy discounts at high street brands. These updates would provide greater financial flexibility and added value for our employees, further enhancing their experience with TIPJAR."

Tommy Giraux

Head of Projects - Honest Burger

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Book a chat with us today and hear how TiPJAR® software can help your business grow!

Fair Tips Talks – Episode 6: Reactions To The Final Code Of Practice

Posted on 23rd April 202414th January 2026 by Angie Carney

Fair Tips Talks

EPISODE 6

REACTIONS TO THE final CODE OF PRACTICE

Let’s dive deep into the Final Code of Practice under the Fair Tips Act, which has been officially released by the Department of Business and Trade this afternoon (Monday 22nd April). Originally scheduled for implementation from July 1, 2024, the start date has now been shifted to October 1, which we imagine is designed to give operators additional time to prepare!

The changes in the new code are significant and aim to increase transparency and fairness in how tips are distributed not just within the hospitality sector but also in other tipped industries. Throughout the development of this code, TiPJAR has been working closely with the Department of Business and Trade. Our goal has been to lend our industry expertise to help shape a framework that addresses the needs of both workers and businesses effectively.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

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Highlights of the Final Code of Practice:

Clarification on Agency Workers: The updated legislation clarifies that for the purposes of tip allocation, the ’employer’ is regarded as the business that hires the agency worker. If tips are passed to Agencies for payment to workers, the Agency retains the obligation to ensure no deductions from tips (aside from income tax). This ensures that agency workers are treated equitably in line with directly employed staff concerning tip distribution.
Emphasis on Hours Worked: The code now includes hours worked during the period that tips were received as a factor to consider in businesses implementing a ‘fair’ distribution under the legislation.
Encouragement for Worker Consultation: The code strongly advises employers to engage with their workforce in developing tipping policies and reinforces that team members’ view of “fairness” will be a consideration.
Exclusion of Digital Direct Tips: Tips collected digitally, directly from customers to staff, are not considered employer-received tips and are out of scope, subject to correct operation of these platforms and relevant HMRC guidance.
Anti-Discrimination Safeguards: Strengthened provisions to prevent any form of discrimination in the distribution of tips, ensuring fairness for all employees regardless of background or characteristics.

Download our easy guide to the legislation

Dive deep into the intricacies of the imminent Fair Tips Act, and grasp what it signifies for hospitality enterprises in its evolving framework.

Enter your details to download our easy guide:

What is TiPJAR?

TiPJAR® is an award-winning cashless tipping and tronc platform that allows individuals and teams to receive cashless tips directly from customers, then distribute them transparently and fairly amongst the team.

We are a start-up on a global mission to help tipped workers in the emerging cashless society, to help businesses reward and motivate their best staff, and to help customers say thank you for great service.

Seamlessly Integrated into your workflows

The world’s only solution that effortlessly integrates into your existing payment flows for a streamlined tipping experience.

designed for enterprise

TiPJAR offers a comprehensive solution tailored to meet the unique needs of large-scale businesses.

Financial technology, built like a bank

With robust financial technology at its core, TiPJAR offers a secure and reliable platform, built to meet the highest complaince standards.

A solution for any kind of business

From restaurants to hotels, TiPJAR is the go-to solution for any kind of business looking to revolutionize their tip management.

Totally compliant with new legislation

A fully compliant solution that ensures your business meets all the requirements of new legislation, while keeping your teams happy!

A revolution built with purpose

We exist to help empower tipped workers with instant access to their tips, financial security, unrivalled transparency, and most of all – a method with which they can collect and share tips across teams fairly.

But our mission doesn’t stop there. We also equip businesses with a powerful tool to reward, motivate, and retain their exceptional staff, eliminating the notorious administrative headaches associated with tips on a global scale. We understand the challenges faced by businesses in managing this crucial aspect, and we are here to provide a game-changing solution.

TiPJAR® Accounts

Registered Users

Tips Processed Annually

£ 10 M+

Transactions

0.1 M+

Introducing

Distribute service charges or credit card tips, transparently.

Fair Tips Act: The Final Code Of Practice is Here

Posted on 22nd April 202414th January 2026 by Angie Carney

Business

Highlights of the Final Code of Practice:

Clarification on Agency Workers: The updated legislation clarifies that for the purposes of tip allocation, the ’employer’ is regarded as the business that hires the agency worker. If tips are passed to Agencies for payment to workers, the Agency retains the obligation to ensure no deductions from tips (aside from income tax). This ensures that agency workers are treated equitably in line with directly employed staff concerning tip distribution.
Emphasis on Hours Worked: The code now includes hours worked during the period that tips were received as a factor to consider in businesses implementing a ‘fair’ distribution under the legislation.
Encouragement for Worker Consultation: The code strongly advises employers to engage with their workforce in developing tipping policies and reinforces that team members’ view of “fairness” will be a consideration.
Exclusion of Digital Direct Tips: Tips collected digitally, directly from customers to staff, are not considered employer-received tips and are out of scope, subject to correct operation of these platforms and relevant HMRC guidance.
Anti-Discrimination Safeguards: Strengthened provisions to prevent any form of discrimination in the distribution of tips, ensuring fairness for all employees regardless of background or characteristics.

We are honoured to have consulted on this vital Code of Practice, which clarifies how employers should handle tips passed to their dedicated teams. At TiPJAR, we are dedicated to promoting fairness and transparency in tip distribution, and we believe this Act will greatly benefit millions of tipped workers and help level the playing field across various sectors. We are excited to support businesses as they navigate these changes and seize the opportunities they bring.

The legislation mandates that all tips and service charges be distributed to staff without deductions, requiring businesses to adopt a clear and equitable distribution system. This reflects a broader legislative acknowledgment of the hard work by industry employees and aims to safeguard their earnings.

Further Insights from the New Code:

Handling of Non-Monetary Tips: The code provides guidelines for the fair distribution of non-monetary gratuities, like vouchers and service tokens, ensuring they are assessed for their monetary value and shared appropriately.
Record-Keeping Best Practices: Businesses must now keep detailed records of all tips received and their distribution for three years. TiPJAR offers solutions to help businesses maintain these records accurately and securely.
Support Systems for Workers: In collaboration with industry partners, TiPJAR is set to facilitate access to information and advice to help workers understand their rights under the new legislation and how to address concerns.
Industry-Wide Collaboration and Education: We are initiating collaborations with hospitality associations to offer educational programs about the new code, preparing the industry to adopt these improved standards.
Feedback and Continuous Improvement: We are establishing channels to gather feedback from both employers and employees on the effectiveness of the new practices, which will guide any necessary adjustments or updates in collaboration with the Department of Business and Trade.

At TiPJAR, we are committed to ensuring a seamless transition to the updated tipping practices and helping our industry embrace a fairer, more transparent future.

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Book a chat with us today and hear how TiPJAR® software can help your business grow!

We Are At A Tipping Point

Posted on 18th April 202415th January 2026 by Angie Carney

We are at a tipping point

A thought leadership piece by Ben Thomas, CEO at TiPJAR

Whilst many in the industry have welcomed the new tips legislation as a needed levelling of the playing field for all, the truth for many is that the timing could not really be worse.

Not only following some of the most challenging years in living memory (I won’t list what we’ve faced these past years because it’s frankly just too depressing) but now the 1st July deadline comes in the wake of the largest increase in minimum wage most of us can remember. Justifiable in the context of a cost-of-living crisis and lingering high inflation, but very, very hard to accommodate for already stretched hospitality businesses.

Hospitality businesses have always been hard to run. Margins are tight, competition is intense and the rate of failure has never been higher.

So it shouldn’t surprise us that although most businesses publicly claim the service charges and tips they collect go to staff, the truth is most have been forced to adopt a policy of retaining some amount of tips and service charges historically. The intention being to cover the substantial costs of getting this money to staff in a way that is “fair” (whatever that means in each circumstance) and recouping what they view as other legitimate costs for staff benefits.

Regrettably, over time, some pushed this further than the government could tolerate. Hence we’re now faced with a requirement that every penny of these funds is paid to staff, within a narrow time frame, and only to those staff (usually) who work in the place they were collected as their normal job.

Those that retained some portion of the funds to cover costs now face a hole in the P&L. Others who took the view that head office or non-site staff should get a share too (after all they unquestionably contribute, so why shouldn’t they?) now face the government simply disagreeing with this practice, and big shortfall in head office salary budgets.

I’ve probably heard every story around treatment of tips and service charges. From 90% retained by the business (justified because it allows them to pay fair wages) through to head office team members whose salaries were up to 80% comprised of tronc (because they impact all the customers’ experience).

But has the time has come for all of us to let go of judgement about any of this? The “naming and shaming” and the blaming breaks my heart – because there is almost always a real, valid, struggling business at the centre fighting to grow, to thrive and trying their best to look after their people, customers and investors. Equally on the other side, the virtue-signalling and heckling of others just doesn’t help.

So let’s stop, and instead can we put the energy into working out together how we get to where we now need to be?

Over the past few months we’ve seen the whole sector go through what feels like a classic change process. First denial – disbelief that the government would possibly stick to such a seismic change. Then anger and resistance, with real rage that even the card processing fee (money which we don’t even get) can be clawed back from the service charges or tips collected.

It’s understandable that some are questing to move into exploration – and testing new approaches. We’ve seen businesses – in my view bravely – try new things. Some have included an optional additional charge on the bill rated as a percentage of spend, being up front this is to help fund the overall experience. Unfortunately, the swift response from Customers and the press was not good. We should be grateful to them. Now we know.

Others have trialled fixed cover charges – but have found it difficult to do this at a level that makes a difference, and again, customers are quick to challenge, less likely to then optionally tip or pay an optional service charge, and few have been able to maintain it.

Given this, there really are only three things to think about if you have been operating a service charge with a retention for the business: Whether or not to maintain it and at what level, and how much to increase your revenue or reduce costs as a result.

Starting by understanding what level of service charge is needed to maintain what for your business is an acceptable level of tronc to competitively attract, retain and reward your on-site team is the first decision. This is where the service charge should be set, because that is all we’re now allowed to do with it.

If that creates disparity, because you were sharing across sites (now not allowed) you’ll need to review remuneration policy. Perhaps there is a top up in lieu at delivery-heavy, low service charge sites. Unconventional, yes, but possibly necessity.

Then, this will leave a shortfall – based on the wage increases you’ve needed, any portion of the service charge which previously may have funded head office or off-site staff distributions, and any amount you used to retain. This can only be covered by increased revenue – price increases or for the brave, targeting growth and getting more customers through the door – or reducing costs if you’re lucky enough to have scope to do so.

This is an uncomfortable reality. Yet as with so much in business, the winners will be those who are fastest to get to through the change process. It’s time to push to reach acceptance and then build commitment to make these difficult decisions.

Help is out there – in particular our partner business The Tronc Advisor is offering Propel subscribers a first-come-first-served discounted fixed price review of any operators’ current position, and can provide fast and simple feedback on the decisions they may need to consider.

Working in the hospitality industry is a great privilege, a world full of wonderful people, incredible innovative businesses, and real passion for creating amazing life-enriching experiences for our guests. Whilst the changes we’re facing are very challenging, I believe our sector is rich in tenacity, creativity and drive to overcome them, if we can work together with honesty, positivity and the considerable force of our collective will.

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Book a chat with us today and hear how TiPJAR® software can help your business grow!

Free E-Learning Courses – The Fair Tips Act

Posted on 18th April 202425th April 2024 by Angie Carney

Free E-Learning Courses - The Fair Tips Act

The hospitality industry is on the brink of a transformative era. With the impending enforcement of the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 on 1st October 2024, a seismic shift is set to occur, benefiting over two million workers in the UK’s hospitality, leisure, and services sectors. For many businesses, the preparation to align with this legislation—and the commitment to ensuring fair pay for their teams—is already underway.

Navigating the complexities of managing, distributing, and calculating tips can be daunting, especially considering the varying contract terms that affect our industry. There are so many intricate details and nuances to consider before the legislation becomes active.

That’s why Access CPL Learning and TiPJAR have developed these FREE training courses to help you ready your operations for the legislation and bolster your teams with confidence!

Your Preparation Playbook

We’ve synthesised the expertise from leaders like UKHospitality, The Tronc Advisor, and TiPJAR into a preparatory checklist:

Clarify Policies and Procedures: Equip your team with a transparent, accessible guide to the new tipping protocols.
Evaluate Current Systems: Review your HR and payroll systems now to meet the legislation’s reporting demands.
Craft a Fair Tipping Strategy: Consider developing or revising your tipping policy, contemplating the use of tronc systems and whether to manage them internally or externally.
Consult with Third Parties: Engage with agencies to ensure fair tip distribution practices for contract staff.
Appoint a Troncmaster: Weigh the advantages of in-house versus external troncmasters for handling your tipping system.
Prepare for Reporting Obligations: Prepare to meet transparency demands; maintain records of all tips and clearly communicate how long these records are retained.
Leverage Existing Software: Explore features in your current payroll or scheduling software that could facilitate tipping policy management.
Revisit Holiday Pay Practices: Ensure your holiday tronc payment practices comply with the new law.
Educate Your Team: Comprehensive training will be key to ensuring a thorough understanding of rights, fair tip allocation, and building trust within your team.

Learning to Lead

In partnership with TiPJAR, Access CPL Learning, part of the Access Group, has created fresh, free e-learning courses to guide managers and team members through the new legislation, enhancing comprehension and ensuring everyone is well-equipped to move forward confidently. We’re committed to updating our courses in tandem with any changes, including those stemming from the still-evolving draft Code of Practice.

Your Next Steps

Arm your managers and team members with our free courses. We’re devoted to supporting operators in fostering fair and transparent tip allocation, empowering teams, and fortifying the hospitality sector’s integrity.

Stay ahead of the curve, and support your team with these new courses:

Book A Demo

Book a chat with us today and hear how TiPJAR® software can help your business grow!

8 Steps Hospitality Operators Need To Take Before October 1st

Posted on 22nd February 202416th June 2026 by Angie Carney

8 Steps Hospitality Operators Need To Take Before 1ST OCTOBER 2024

The new tipping legislation is coming! You need to take these steps to remain compliant.

With the 1st of July fast approaching, the hospitality industry is bracing for a significant shift in tipping legislation that will reshape the way businesses manage and distribute tips and service charges.

As operators prepare to navigate these changes, ensuring compliance with the new regulations becomes paramount to avoid penalties and maintain trust with both staff and customers!

So to help, we thought we would outline 8 essential steps that hospitality operators need to take to ensure compliance before the new tipping legislation comes into effect! From establishing clear policies to reviewing existing tronc setups, each step is vital in preparing businesses for the regulatory changes ahead!

the legislation is live!

Step One:
Get Your Policies Straight

It’s time to put your intentions and policy down on paper. Your business should start making changes by crafting a clear and comprehensive policy that spells out exactly how tips and service charges are shared up in your business.

It’s really important that you don’t forget anyone—front of house, back of house, and even those agency folks should be covered in your policy.

This isn’t just about having a document to tick a box; you need to think about setting the tone for fairness and transparency in your businesses tipping practices. Take this as a real opportunity to address any skeletons you may or may not have hidden in your tronc closet.

Step Two: Talk about it

Like it or not clearly communicating your policy, and empowering your teams with knowledge about their rights in regard to the upcoming changes in tipping regulations is about to become an essential part of compliance.

We’d recommend hosting a meeting or training session to discuss the new rules and ensure everyone understands their implications, and that your staff are equipped to confidently address any inquiries or concerns from customers regarding tipping practices. By educating your staff, you not only ensure compliance but also demonstrate transparency. Encourage open communication and create a supportive environment where questions are welcomed and addressed.

With informed and prepared staff, you can navigate the transition smoothly and uphold your commitment to excellence in customer service.

Step Three:
Consider implementing a tronc

Now might be the perfect opportunity to explore the benefits of implementing a tronc system if you haven’t already done so.

Tronc arrangements offer a streamlined approach to tip distribution, aligning with the requirements of the new legislation while also benefiting your business and staff. We would definitely recommend taking the time to assess your options and determine whether integrating a tronc system could enhance your operations.

Implementing a tronc system offers several advantages over not having one:

Compliance:
With the new legislation emphasising fair and transparent tip distribution, a tronc ensures that your business adheres to legal requirements, reducing the risk of penalties or disputes.
Fairness and Transparency:
A compliant troncmaster must promote fairness by establishing clear guidelines for distributing tips among employees based on predetermined criteria, fostering transparency and trust.
Efficiency When Choosing An Automated Solution:
Automated Tronc systems simplfy the process of tip allocation, saving time and resources compared to manual methods. This efficiency allows your staff and head office teams to focus on delivering exceptional service rather than managing tip distribution.
Employee Satisfaction:
Fair and timely distribution of tips is an essential piece of the new legislation. By outsourcing a troncmaster – you’re putting the pressure of timely distribution on them, rather than your payroll teams.
Financial Benefits:
Tronc systems can lead to huge cost savings for both employers and employees. By exempting tips from National Insurance contributions, businesses can reduce payroll expenses, while employees may enjoy increased take-home pay. TiPJAR can even work with you to reclaim up to 6 years worth of NICs you and your staff have already paid on tips.

Step 4: Review Your Existing Tronc Setup (If you do have one)

Got a tronc arrangement already running? Time for a check-up! Take a good look under the hood and make sure everything’s running smoothly. It’s critical that operators check that their setup aligns with the new rules and regulations.

Double-Check for Compliance and Fairness:
Take a closer look at your tronc arrangement to see if it’s playing by the rules. Is it fair? Transparent? Fair pay for fair work, right? If you spot anything you’re unsure about, or places where things could be better, don’t hesitate to fix them or seek professional advice. It’s all about keeping things on the up-and-up and making sure everyone’s happy.
Spot Where You Can Boost Performance:
Look for any areas where your tronc could use a little boost. Maybe there’s a way to make things run smoother or shine a light on how tips are shared? Have no idea how yo’re going to sort the reporting aspect of the legislation? Keep your eyes peeled for ways to make your tronc even better and more effective for your team.
Get Your Team Involved
Time to rally the troops! We’re huge believers that it’s critical to have your team involved in the review and policy-writing process. Their feedback is gold. Open up the floor for ideas, suggestions, and any concerns they might have. After all, you’re all in this together!
Stay Committed to Getting Better:
Tronc management is an ongoing journey, not a one-time thing. Keep an eye on how things are going, and don’t be afraid to make changes along the way. Stay on top of the latest rules and regs, and keep your tronc in tip-top shape.

Step 5: Crunch the numbers

It’s time to dive into the numbers and assess how the legislation may affect your financial landscape. By thoroughly analysing the financial forecast, you can anticipate any potential hurdles and devise strategies to navigate them effectively.

With insights gleaned from your financial assessment, chart a strategic course for the future. Consider various scenarios and develop contingency plans to address any challenges that may arise. Planning ahead ensures you’re equipped to steer your business towards continued success.

Before implementing any changes, carefully review the terms and conditions associated with your tronc. Pay close attention to any hidden costs or contractual obligations that could impact your financial outlook. Thorough scrutiny now prevents unwelcome surprises later.

Things to consider when looking at how the legislation may impact your business financially:

Have you been paying for National Insurance on tips? If you were not deciding distribution as an employer you and your staff could be eligible to claim up to 6 years of contributions back! We work closely with The Tronc Advisor to help operators claim these payments back, as well as set up a compliant tronc going forward.
Take a look at how much distributing tips or running your tronc is currently costing you. We’d recommend shopping around if you’re using an external solution, or looking at how many man hours are put in by your payroll team if you’re running a tronc internally.
If you previously kept a portion of tronc back as a reserve to distribute later whether to cover holidays or quieter periods, it’s simply no longer allowed. It’s time to be open with your team their income may fluctuate more going forwards, and consider whether it’s viable to pay tronc to team members who are not working – on holiday or other leave – when there’s no “tronc reserve” to cover this.
You may even want to look at the balance between salary and tronc, and make sure you’re not over-reliant on tronc to achieve a sustainable and competitive overall reward. This may mean looking at service charge levels, pricing levels and salaries – as well as how tronc is shared out.
With salary negotiations involving tips becoming a big no-no, it’s time to review staff compensation strategies. With tronc no longer a part of salary negotiations, reassess how you’re going to attract and retain talent effectively.
Consider the long-term financial impact. Look beyond immediate changes to anticipate how implementing a compliant tronc system can support your business’s financial health and sustainability over time.

Stay agile and responsive to changing circumstances, allowing you to adjust your approach as needed. By remaining adaptable, you can effectively navigate unforeseen challenges and seize new opportunities as they arise.

Step 6: Update Employee Contracts

Updating employee contracts is a critical step in ensuring compliance with the new tipping legislation. This involves reviewing existing contracts and making necessary amendments to reflect any changes in tip distribution policies mandated by the new laws.

Previously, it wasn’t uncommon to agree with staff to take a different wage or salary in exchange for a different share of tronc or tips, usually a reduced salary for a higher share of tronc. However, under the new legislation, you can’t leverage commitments on tronc distribution as part of salary negotiation. Staff wages or salary (whether for new starters or existing team members) must agreed without reference to tronc distributions.

Employers must clearly define the proper basic pay amount, excluding tips, in employee contracts to avoid liabilities. Failure to update contracts before the law takes effect could result in tips being considered part of the basic wage, subjecting the full amount to National Insurance contributions.

It’s also really crucial to ensure compliance with minimum and living wage laws, which prohibit salaries from being topped up with tips. Stay ahead of these changes by updating your employee contracts sooner, rather than later!

Step 7: Evaluate Technology Solutions

When preparing for the new tipping legislation, it’s essential to assess your technology solutions to ensure they align with compliance requirements. Tip management software and modern point-of-sale (POS) systems offer efficient ways to streamline tip distribution and enhance accuracy. These solutions can automate tip calculations, track tip amounts for reporting, and ensure transparent distribution among staff members. By leveraging technology, businesses can eliminate manual processes, reduce errors, and maintain comprehensive records of tip transactions.

Additionally, advanced POS & rota systems may integrate seamlessly with tronc management platforms, facilitating smooth communication and data exchange between systems.

Evaluating and investing in technology solutions tailored to your business needs can significantly improve operational efficiency and compliance readiness in preparation for the new legislation.

Step 8: Seek Professional Advice

Navigating the complexities of the new tipping legislation can be daunting. If you find yourself uncertain about its implications or how to ensure compliance, seeking professional advice is paramount.

Legal or financial experts with specialised knowledge of hospitality industry regulations can provide invaluable guidance and clarity. They can assess your specific situation, review your existing practices, and offer tailored recommendations to ensure compliance with the new legislation.

Professional advisors can also help interpret the intricacies of the law, address any potential risks, and implement effective strategies to adapt your operations accordingly.

At TiPJAR, we understand the importance of staying ahead of regulatory changes and ensuring compliance with the new tipping legislation. That’s why we work closely with Andy Hamman, the UK’s leading tronc expert at The Tronc Advisor.

We're here to help!

As the countdown to October 1st begins, hospitality operators must take proactive steps to ensure compliance with the upcoming tipping legislation. By following these essential guidelines, businesses can navigate the regulatory changes smoothly and maintain trust with both staff and customers.

At TiPJAR, we prioritise working closely with you and your team to establish fair, transparent, and compliant policies tailored to your business’s unique needs. Recognising the diversity of operations, we reject a one-size-fits-all approach and instead collaborate with you to craft policies that resonate with your values and team dynamics, whether you run a bustling restaurant, a cozy cafe, or a lively bar.

Our Supertronc product offers automated tracking of transactions and tip distributions, ensuring staff transparency and timely payments. By implementing a compliant tronc policy through TiPJAR, businesses can enjoy significant savings on National Insurance contributions while streamlining tip administration and maximizing cost-effectiveness. We’ve partnered with The Tronc Advisor to assist in recovering historical NICs, showcasing the tangible financial benefits of our solution, which is designed to ensure compliance effortlessly.

We’re here to support businesses every step of the way. If you’d like to find out more about our solutions – get in touch with the form here.

TiPJAR Secures £4.5M Funding Boost to Scale Fair Tipping Across Hospitality

TIPJAR SECURES £4.5M FUNDING BOOST TO SCALE FAIR TIPPING ACROSS HOSPITALITY The investment will help thousands more operators and workers manage tips and service charge as cashless tipping becomes the new norm TiPJAR, the platform transforming how hospitality operators collect, distribute and allocate tips and service charge, has secured £4.5 million in new investment to accelerate its mission to ensure every worker receives fair, transparent and reliable access to the tips they earn. The raise cements TiPJAR’s position […]

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Customer Story: Wells & Co

Customer Stories: Wells & Co How a 150‑Year‑Old Brewery Modernised Tipping, Boosted Service Scores, and Unlocked Team Happiness “Staff are happier and our customers are also clearly happier. Service is improving. TiPJAR has been a really good choice for us.” Matt Chapman Financial Controller – Wells & Co The Challenge As an independent, family-owned business […]

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The 2026 Autumn Budget: What It Really Means For Hospitality

TiPJAR – Dan Hawkie, Chief Commercial Officer Rachel Reeves has delivered her 2026 Autumn Budget, setting out a plan she says will move the UK toward a £24.6bn surplus by 2031, with inflation easing slightly next year. But for hospitality, a sector that has already weathered years of cost pressure, labour shortages and inconsistent government […]

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Tronc & The National Insurance Advantage

Posted on 29th January 20243rd June 2026 by Angie Carney

The National Insurance Advantage OF Compliant Tronc Schemes

In the midst of discussions revolving around minimum wage hikes and VAT deliberations, an often underestimated aspect deserving attention is the potential savings of National Insurance (NI) contributions linked to tips and service charges.

Many operators may not be aware of the substantial savings that tronc policies can unlock. So, let’s dive into the government’s support for compliant tronc schemes and how businesses can leverage this endorsement for financial efficiency.

Government's Support for Compliant Tronc Policies

Compliant tronc policies, backed by the government, are designed to align with the principles of fairness and transparency. The essence of these policies lies in ensuring that tips and service charges are distributed equitably among staff, acknowledging their contributions to the overall guest experience.

Acknowledging the role of tips and service charges in supplementing income, compliant tronc policies provide operators with a framework that suits the industry’s dynamics while ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards.

Operators embracing compliant tronc policies can unlock substantial savings on National Insurance contributions. This dual benefit ensures a positive impact not only on the financial health of businesses but also on the take-home earnings of the hardworking hospitality teams.

Unlocking Potential Savings

A tronc policy is essentially a system implemented by businesses to fairly distribute tips and service charges among their staff. It ensures that employees receive a fair share of the gratuities they help generate, typically based on their level of service or other relevant criteria.

A tronc policy is instrumental in unlocking potential savings for businesses and their employees. By implementing a fair and compliant system for distributing tips and service charges among staff, businesses can ensure that employees receive their fair share of gratuities based on their contributions. But, not all tronc policies meet legal and regulatory standards! Compliance is essential, as it ensures fairness and transparency in tip distribution, while also unlocking savings in National Insurance Contributions (NICs).

NICs are payments made by employees and employers to fund state benefits and services in the United Kingdom, including the NHS and state pensions. By adhering to compliant tronc policies, businesses can mitigate NICs associated with tip income, leading to significant cost savings for both employers and employees.

how can we help?

TiPJAR’s solutions not only streamline tip administration but also provide a strategic approach to NICs, maximising cost-effectiveness for both businesses and staff.

Cash-equivalent tipping

TiPJAR’s cashless tipping solution has been developed in collaboration with HMRC, ensuring that tips collected through this method are considered cash-equivalent. This distinction exempts both businesses and staff from National Insurance Contributions (NICs), aligning cashless tips with the treatment of cash tips. This approach alleviates the tax burden on businesses, with the responsibility for taxes on tips falling on the staff. By maintaining a clear separation between tips and business revenue, Cashless Tipping eliminates NICs for both parties, resulting in significant cost savings for businesses and employees alike.

tronc

SuperTronc, our cutting-edge tronc management solution, is meticulously crafted to adhere to the impending tipping legislation, ensuring full compliance for businesses. Through the implementation of a compliant tronc policy, SuperTronc enables businesses to mitigate or entirely eliminate National Insurance Contributions (NICs) commonly associated with traditional tipping structures.

We’ve also collaborated with The Tronc Advisor to facilitate the recovery of historical NICs exceeding £25 million for businesses, highlighting the substantial financial benefits our solution offers.

Beyond simplifying tip administration, SuperTronc provides a strategic approach to NICs, enhancing financial efficiency for both businesses and staff members.

want to know how much you can save?

Why not try our Tronc & Tips Calculator to see how much your business & staff can save in National Insurance Contributions when implementing Supertronc with TiPJAR.

National Insurance Savings Calculator

*Note: The figures provided are illustrative only and based on the NICs increase from April 2025.

Annual Tips (£):

Business NI Savings (£):

Your staff save up to (£):

Curious to find out more?

Get in touch!

Daily Tronc Splits: Elevating Employee Engagement

Posted on 19th January 202414th January 2026 by Angie Carney

In the fast-paced world of hospitality, where every moment counts, revolutionising the way we handle tips is no longer a choice but a necessity. At TiPJAR, we’re proud to introduce you to a game-changing feature that’s reshaping the landscape – Daily Splits.

Let’s dive deep into the nuances of this revolutionary tool, how it works, and the impact it can have on your business.

Daily Tronc Splits are Transforming Employee Engagement

At the heart of our tipping revolution is our pioneering SUPERTRONC™ solution, redefining the way businesses in the hospitality industry manage and distribute tips. Our belief in revolutionizing the hospitality industry is rooted in a vision that transcends conventional norms – helping businesses drive revenue and engage with and reward their teams.

At the heart of SUPERTRONC™ lies the transformative Daily Tronc Splits feature. This revolutionary aspect allows businesses to move beyond traditional flatline monthly calculations, providing real-time acknowledgment for every ounce of effort exerted by the team. By linking employee performance directly to daily rewards, SUPERTRONC™ creates a dynamic and motivating work environment.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

At its essence, daily splits revolutionise the conventional approach to tip distribution by harnessing the power of automation. SUPERTRONC™ seamlessly integrates with your business’s tech stack, extracting valuable data from EPOS transactions and rota schedules. At the end of the week, a careful and precise calculation takes place, considering factors such as daily transactions and hours worked.

Tronc is then distributed based on daily calculations – so Saturday’s tronc pot is only shared with those who worked on Saturday.

This method ensures that the tronc distribution is not only 100% accurate but also reflective of the daily nuances of your business. The result is a dynamic and responsive system that adapts to the ebb and flow of your operations, providing a fair and transparent mechanism for distributing tips among your hardworking staff.

Why does this matter?

The “why” behind the daily splits approach lies in the core belief that recognising and incentivising exceptional employee performance is key to fostering a thriving work environment.

By directly linking employee performance to tangible financial rewards, SUPERTRONC™ serves as a powerful motivator for teams to consistently deliver outstanding service and excel in upselling opportunities!

In essence, it’s a transformative strategy that not only boosts employee morale but also enhances overall business performance and revenue generation through a motivated and engaged team.

No More One-Size-Fits-All

Bid farewell to the era of one-size-fits-all tip distributions!

Daily tronc calculations waves goodbye to uniform shares and welcomes a dynamic system that acknowledges individual effort. With SUPERTRONC, every team member gets a fair slice of the pie on a daily basis. It’s not just a distribution method; it’s the secret sauce for cultivating a happy and highly motivated team, where each member feels recognised and rewarded for their unique contributions every single day.

best part? it's totally automated

SUPERTRONC offers a seamless synchronization with your Electronic Point of Sale (EPOS) and rota systems, creating a fully automated experience.

This means that the intricate process of collecting and distributing tips occurs effortlessly in the background without manual intervention. The integration ensures a smooth flow of data, reducing the administrative burden on your end. With this automated approach, you can say goodbye to unnecessary hassle and embrace a more precise and efficient system for managing tips in your business.

Curious to find out more?

Book A Demo

Book a chat with us today and hear how TiPJAR® software can help your business grow!

Fair Tips Talks – Bonus Episode: Reactions To The Code Of Practice

Posted on 21st December 202314th January 2026 by Angie Carney

Fair Tips Talks

BONUS EPISODE

REACTIONS TO THE DRAFT CODE OF PRACTICE

Embark on an insightful journey with Fair Tips Talks in our special bonus episode! Join Dan Hawkie, CCO at TiPJAR, in an quick 20-minute interview with Andy Hamman, Director at The Tronc Advisor, as they unravel the intricacies of the government’s recently unveiled draft code of practice. This code, a pivotal part of the upcoming legislation, plays a crucial role in defining what is deemed “fair” in the industry.

Explore the nuances and implications of this draft code, providing a comprehensive understanding for industry players. Get a sneak peek into the forthcoming tipping legislation set to come into effect in July 2024, and find out how it will affect you!

As a prelude to our full Episode 5 in the new year, this conversation sets the stage for a more extensive exploration of these critical topics. Stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions by tuning in to this engaging discussion.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Or watch on Youtube:

About the code of practice

The new tipping legislation is launching from July 2024! Here’s the headlines about what your business needs to do according to the draft Code Of Practice:

Display your tipping policies before the customer reaches for their wallet.
Set up a system for customer queries about where the tips go.
Ensure your crew can confidently communicate tipping policies to customers.
Workers need total transparency on what tips & service charges have been collected in the sites they work in and how their share is calculated.
Information on service charges, tips, gratuities, and cover charges should be upfront before the purchase, covering mandatory or discretionary charges, deductions, and distribution details.

Download our easy guide to the legislation

Dive deep into the intricacies of the imminent Fair Tips Act, and grasp what it signifies for hospitality enterprises in its evolving framework.

Enter your details to download our easy guide:

What is TiPJAR?

Seamlessly Integrated into your workflows

The world’s only solution that effortlessly integrates into your existing payment flows for a streamlined tipping experience.

designed for enterprise

TiPJAR offers a comprehensive solution tailored to meet the unique needs of large-scale businesses.

Financial technology, built like a bank

With robust financial technology at its core, TiPJAR offers a secure and reliable platform, built to meet the highest complaince standards.

A solution for any kind of business

From restaurants to hotels, TiPJAR is the go-to solution for any kind of business looking to revolutionize their tip management.

Totally compliant with new legislation

A fully compliant solution that ensures your business meets all the requirements of new legislation, while keeping your teams happy!

A revolution built with purpose

TiPJAR® Accounts

Registered Users

Tips Processed Annually

£ 10 M+

Transactions

0.1 M+

Introducing

Distribute service charges or credit card tips, transparently.

Fair Tips Talks – Episode Four: The Dangers Of Non-Compliance

Posted on 21st November 202314th January 2026 by Angie Carney

Fair Tips Talks

Episode FOUR

The Dangers Of Non-Compliance

Step into the complex topic of fair tipping with Propel, TIPJAR and The Tronc Advisor, as we uncover the upcoming Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act in detail. Gain a deep understanding of the challenges surrounding these changes as we embark on a journey of exploration and clarification.

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Or watch on Youtube:

About this episode

Embark on a candid exploration of the consequences of non-compliance with the new tipping legislation!

Gain invaluable advice for operators at risk, insights into common non-compliance areas, and practical solutions to navigate the evolving landscape of tipping practices. We’ll delve into the critical role of communication, discuss potential financial and reputational risks, and offer guidance on staying within legal boundaries.

Don’t miss this insightful session focused on ensuring compliance, safeguarding your brand, and nurturing positive industry relationships!

Our expert guests

Download our easy guide to the legislation

Dive deep into the intricacies of the imminent Fair Tips Act, and grasp what it signifies for hospitality enterprises in its evolving framework.

Enter your details to download our easy guide:

What is TiPJAR?

Seamlessly Integrated into your workflows

The world’s only solution that effortlessly integrates into your existing payment flows for a streamlined tipping experience.

designed for enterprise

TiPJAR offers a comprehensive solution tailored to meet the unique needs of large-scale businesses.

Financial technology, built like a bank

With robust financial technology at its core, TiPJAR offers a secure and reliable platform, built to meet the highest complaince standards.

A solution for any kind of business

From restaurants to hotels, TiPJAR is the go-to solution for any kind of business looking to revolutionize their tip management.

Totally compliant with new legislation

A fully compliant solution that ensures your business meets all the requirements of new legislation, while keeping your teams happy!

A revolution built with purpose

TiPJAR® Accounts

Registered Users

Tips Processed Annually

£ 10 M+

Transactions

0.1 M+

Introducing

Distribute service charges or credit card tips, transparently.

Business

TiPJAR Wins UK Smart Grant to Supercharge Revolutionary Spend & Save Product for Hospitality Workers

Book A Demo

Fair Tips Talks

EPISODE 6

REACTIONS TO THE final CODE OF PRACTICE

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Or watch on Youtube:

Highlights of the Final Code of Practice:

Download our easy guide to the legislation

What is TiPJAR?

Seamlessly Integrated into your workflows

designed for enterprise

Financial technology, built like a bank

A solution for any kind of business

Totally compliant with new legislation

A revolution built with purpose

Business

Highlights of the Final Code of Practice:

Further Insights from the New Code:

Book A Demo

We are at a tipping point

A thought leadership piece by Ben Thomas, CEO at TiPJAR

Book A Demo

Free E-Learning Courses - The Fair Tips Act

Your Preparation Playbook

Learning to Lead

Your Next Steps

Book A Demo

8 Steps Hospitality Operators Need To Take Before 1ST OCTOBER 2024

the legislation is live!

Step One: Get Your Policies Straight

Step Two: Talk about it

Step Three:Consider implementing a tronc

Step 4: Review Your Existing Tronc Setup (If you do have one)

Step 5: Crunch the numbers

Step 6: Update Employee Contracts

Step 7: Evaluate Technology Solutions

Step 8: Seek Professional Advice

We're here to help!

The National Insurance Advantage OF Compliant Tronc Schemes

Government's Support for Compliant Tronc Policies

Unlocking Potential Savings

how can we help?

Cash-equivalent tipping

tronc

want to know how much you can save?

National Insurance Savings Calculator

Curious to find out more?

Daily Tronc Splits are Transforming Employee Engagement

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Why does this matter?

No More One-Size-Fits-All

best part? it's totally automated

Curious to find out more?

Book A Demo

Fair Tips Talks

BONUS EPISODE

REACTIONS TO THE DRAFT CODE OF PRACTICE

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Or watch on Youtube:

About the code of practice

Download our easy guide to the legislation

What is TiPJAR?

Seamlessly Integrated into your workflows

designed for enterprise

Financial technology, built like a bank

A solution for any kind of business

Totally compliant with new legislation

A revolution built with purpose

Fair Tips Talks

Episode FOUR

The Dangers Of Non-Compliance

LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

Or watch on Youtube:

About this episode

Our expert guests

Download our easy guide to the legislation

What is TiPJAR?

Seamlessly Integrated into your workflows

Step One:
Get Your Policies Straight

Step Three:
Consider implementing a tronc