PETALING JAYA: Most coffee shop operators do not collect service charges, says the Malaysian Singapore Coffee Shop Proprietors’ General Association (MSCSPGA).
However, for matters related to pricing, including service charges, president Wong Teu Hoon said the association leaves it to be decided individually by its members.
“Members have never discussed, supported, or issued any statement regarding service charge increases,” he said in a statement on Jan 23 (Thursday).
He said that most eateries will remain open during festive periods like Chinese New Year to provide customers with quality meals, ensuring they can enjoy proper dining without the need to cook at home.
“We continue to advocate for fairness and transparency in the industry and reaffirm our commitment to supporting local businesses and customers,” he said.
Recently, a popular coffee chain, Oriental Kopi, apologised for announcing a 10-15% service charge hike during the upcoming Chinese New Year festive period and reversed the decision in an announcement online on Wednesday.
Its initial hike announcement received widespread criticism, which led to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry advising the public to lodge complaints if there were restaurants that hiked prices during festive periods.
Oriental Kopi is a retail coffee chain that is not under the MSCSPGA.
It also debuted on the ACE Market on Thursday and saw its price soaring over 90% from its initial public offering price of 44 sen a share.
