Ask Auntie, CNS Local Life, Caymanian status

After living in Germany, the US and Panama I have learned there are different ways that grocery stores handle the bagging of groceries. In the US and Germany the store clerk bags the groceries, or in times of high traffic there are “baggers” that provide the service as part of your purchase. In Panama, there usually are baggers all the time and a tip is anticipated.

What is the policy here in Cayman? I have noticed that the cashier will bag groceries for some customers, but never seems to do so for me. I do bring my own bags, and some customers do purchase (at a per-bag price) the store’s plastic bags. On days when there are teenage baggers, should they be tipped? If so, how much? I want to do what is customary, but don’t want to appear cheap or condescending. Life is filled with challenges!


Auntie’s answer: I’m glad you asked that question. It has been about three years since I last offered advice on tipping for various services in Cayman (See Need tips on proper amounts for gratuities), so it seems a good time to publicise this once again.

Right off the bat, I will say that, yes, tip those young baggers. There are so many distractions these days that make it way too easy for youngsters to waste their time, from video games to sharing every detail of their life through social media, that I think it is important to recognise someone with the diligence to work, no matter what the job. Being a bagger is a great first step for our youth, giving them an early lesson on the benefits of working and earning their own money.

What better way to encourage such positive behaviour than acknowledging their effort with a bit of cash? The way I look at it, you can’t go wrong by handing over a dollar bill to your bagger. I also think that paper will be more appreciated than a few coins, especially after a few hours of work when pockets may get a bit heavy (if things go well), but I’m sure all tips will be welcome. Towards that end, I recommend always keeping a few singles in your wallet so you are never caught short at the store in this age of cashless shopping.

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