#8 TIPPING POINT - The Rules Hospitality Businesses Can’t Afford To Ignore

In this episode, we explore the Tipping Act and what it means for employers, payroll teams, and HR leaders, with expert insight from Hannah-Jane Dobbie and Julie Gunnell.

We break down what qualifies as a tip, how service charges should be handled, and the responsibilities businesses now carry around fairness, transparency, and record keeping.

The discussion also looks ahead to changes coming in October 2026, including new consultation requirements and policy updates, and what employers should be doing now to stay compliant and avoid risk.

In this conversation we cover the difference between tips and service charges, which businesses are most affected, how payroll and HR must work together, the consequences of non-compliance, and why proactive advice is critical as employment legislation continues to evolve.

Hannah-Jane Dobbie is Head of HR Consultancy at Azets, supporting employers with complex people and employment challenges. Connect with Hannah-Jane on LinkedIn.

Julie Gunnell is Associate Director of Growth for Payroll at Azets, advising businesses on compliant and transparent payroll processes. Connect with Julie on LinkedIn.

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Fresh Perspectives is the business podcast from Azets where advisers, experts and leaders share fresh thinking to help you move forward with confidence.

Each episode explores real-world challenges and opportunities for business owners and entrepreneurs, from finance and growth to leadership and technology.

Formerly Bang The Drum, the show continues Azets’ commitment to sharing practical advice, new ideas and inspiring stories from across the business community.

This podcast has featured at #1 in the Apple Podcast charts for Management podcasts and #19 in the Apple Podcasts charts for Business podcasts.

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Find more about Azets at www.azets.com.

Contact us at podcast@azets.co.uk.