Gone are the leisurely days of strolling to the neighbourhood cafe, clutching a five-dollar note in our well-worn wallets, fantasising about the aromatic freshly brewed coffee that awaited us.

The present reality necessitates our ability to learn, comprehend, and adjust to new modes of transactions.

Whether it's scanning QR codes or making card payments, these are the modern requirements for indulging in that same cup of coffee.

Let's take a moment to explore the reasons behind our nation's rapid shift towards cashless transactions.

In Australia, card transactions have seen a significant surge in recent years, and it's not difficult to see the advantages: convenience, speed, and the relief of carrying lighter wallets.

However, before we all eagerly embrace the wave of digitisation, it's crucial to be aware of the potential pitfalls that come along with it.

Puzzle Coffee, the café in Melbourne, has faced allegations of scamming customers by exclusively accepting card payments that involve a surcharge. Source: Reddit/ OopsieShouTaoDoopsie.

A recent incident involving a coffee-loving customer sheds light on the potential drawbacks of the digital shift. Puzzle Coffee, a seemingly innocent establishment within Melbourne's bustling Southern Cross Station, has garnered attention for the wrong reasons.

The customer noticed two peculiar signs displayed at the shop's register. The first sign proudly declared their cashless policy, stating that only card payments were accepted.

While businesses have the right to choose their preferred payment method, it was the second sign that raised concerns. This sign indicated that every card transaction would incur a 1.2 per cent surcharge.

Here's an important point to remember: According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), businesses can impose a surcharge only if there is an alternative payment method available to customers without any additional charges.

‘If there's no way for a consumer to pay without paying a surcharge, the business must include the minimum surcharge payable in the displayed price for its products.’ the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) states.

A customer was purchasing a coffee from Puzzle Coffee, located in Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. Source: Instagram/ThePuzzleCoffee

After the revelation was made public, a representative from Puzzle Coffee confirmed that the cafe was made aware of the problem and apologised to their customers.

They stated, 'We were just informed by a customer yesterday and we have since removed the surcharges. We apologise to any customers affected and will be actively providing refunds.'

Key Takeaways

• A Melbourne café, Puzzle Coffee, is accused of 'blatant scamming' by a customer due to its mandatory card payment and subsequent surcharge policy.
  
• The customer highlighted that the café charges a 1.2 per cent surcharge on card payments yet does not display this surcharge in the price of goods, as is required by law under ACCC regulations.
  
• The café was made aware of the issue and has since removed the surcharges, apologising for the mistake and offering refunds to affected customers.
  
• The café confirmed it went cashless during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect staff and reduce theft by keeping no cash on the premises.

Despite the apology, the incident leaves us with a lingering aftertaste. So, our dear members, here are some practical tips for preventing such incidents:

1. Carefully check the displayed price and ask about any additional charges before paying.
2. Know your rights. If you spot something fishy, don't shy away from querying it.
3. Keep your receipts. It may sound old-fashioned, but receipts are your best bet when seeking refunds.

Have you encountered any instances where businesses implemented cashless payment policies but failed to disclose additional surcharges? How important is it for businesses to clearly display any extra charges associated with card transactions?

 

[Observer]

Ban all businesses that want to charge a surcharge fee

 

[Muff]

Gone are the leisurely days of strolling to the neighbourhood cafe, clutching a five-dollar note in our well-worn wallets, fantasising about the aromatic freshly brewed coffee that awaited us.

The present reality necessitates our ability to learn, comprehend, and adjust to new modes of transactions.

Whether it's scanning QR codes or making card payments, these are the modern requirements for indulging in that same cup of coffee.

Let's take a moment to explore the reasons behind our nation's rapid shift towards cashless transactions.

In Australia, card transactions have seen a significant surge in recent years, and it's not difficult to see the advantages: convenience, speed, and the relief of carrying lighter wallets.

However, before we all eagerly embrace the wave of digitisation, it's crucial to be aware of the potential pitfalls that come along with it.

View attachment 23787

Puzzle Coffee, the café in Melbourne, has faced allegations of scamming customers by exclusively accepting card payments that involve a surcharge. Source: Reddit/ OopsieShouTaoDoopsie.

A recent incident involving a coffee-loving customer sheds light on the potential drawbacks of the digital shift. Puzzle Coffee, a seemingly innocent establishment within Melbourne's bustling Southern Cross Station, has garnered attention for the wrong reasons.

The customer noticed two peculiar signs displayed at the shop's register. The first sign proudly declared their cashless policy, stating that only card payments were accepted.

While businesses have the right to choose their preferred payment method, it was the second sign that raised concerns. This sign indicated that every card transaction would incur a 1.2 per cent surcharge.

Here's an important point to remember: According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), businesses can impose a surcharge only if there is an alternative payment method available to customers without any additional charges.

‘If there's no way for a consumer to pay without paying a surcharge, the business must include the minimum surcharge payable in the displayed price for its products.’ the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) states.

View attachment 23788

A customer was purchasing a coffee from Puzzle Coffee, located in Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. Source: Instagram/ThePuzzleCoffee

After the revelation was made public, a representative from Puzzle Coffee confirmed that the cafe was made aware of the problem and apologised to their customers.

They stated, 'We were just informed by a customer yesterday and we have since removed the surcharges. We apologise to any customers affected and will be actively providing refunds.'

Key Takeaways

• A Melbourne café, Puzzle Coffee, is accused of 'blatant scamming' by a customer due to its mandatory card payment and subsequent surcharge policy.
• The customer highlighted that the café charges a 1.2 per cent surcharge on card payments yet does not display this surcharge in the price of goods, as is required by law under ACCC regulations.
• The café was made aware of the issue and has since removed the surcharges, apologising for the mistake and offering refunds to affected customers.
• The café confirmed it went cashless during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect staff and reduce theft by keeping no cash on the premises.

Despite the apology, the incident leaves us with a lingering aftertaste. So, our dear members, here are some practical tips for preventing such incidents:

1. Carefully check the displayed price and ask about any additional charges before paying.
2. Know your rights. If you spot something fishy, don't shy away from querying it.
3. Keep your receipts. It may sound old-fashioned, but receipts are your best bet when seeking refunds.

Have you encountered any instances where businesses implemented cashless payment policies but failed to disclose additional surcharges? How important is it for businesses to clearly display any extra charges associated with card transactions?

 

[Cheezil]

I woulda jys walked out & gone elseelsewhere, especially considering the choice for cash has been taken away!

 

[Sherza]

And boycott them

 

[Sherza]

I woulda jys walked out & gone elseelsewhere, especially considering the choice for cash has been taken away!

Me too

 

[Ree]

Gone are the leisurely days of strolling to the neighbourhood cafe, clutching a five-dollar note in our well-worn wallets, fantasising about the aromatic freshly brewed coffee that awaited us.

The present reality necessitates our ability to learn, comprehend, and adjust to new modes of transactions.

Whether it's scanning QR codes or making card payments, these are the modern requirements for indulging in that same cup of coffee.

Let's take a moment to explore the reasons behind our nation's rapid shift towards cashless transactions.

In Australia, card transactions have seen a significant surge in recent years, and it's not difficult to see the advantages: convenience, speed, and the relief of carrying lighter wallets.

However, before we all eagerly embrace the wave of digitisation, it's crucial to be aware of the potential pitfalls that come along with it.

View attachment 23787

Puzzle Coffee, the café in Melbourne, has faced allegations of scamming customers by exclusively accepting card payments that involve a surcharge. Source: Reddit/ OopsieShouTaoDoopsie.

A recent incident involving a coffee-loving customer sheds light on the potential drawbacks of the digital shift. Puzzle Coffee, a seemingly innocent establishment within Melbourne's bustling Southern Cross Station, has garnered attention for the wrong reasons.

The customer noticed two peculiar signs displayed at the shop's register. The first sign proudly declared their cashless policy, stating that only card payments were accepted.

While businesses have the right to choose their preferred payment method, it was the second sign that raised concerns. This sign indicated that every card transaction would incur a 1.2 per cent surcharge.

Here's an important point to remember: According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), businesses can impose a surcharge only if there is an alternative payment method available to customers without any additional charges.

‘If there's no way for a consumer to pay without paying a surcharge, the business must include the minimum surcharge payable in the displayed price for its products.’ the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) states.

View attachment 23788

A customer was purchasing a coffee from Puzzle Coffee, located in Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. Source: Instagram/ThePuzzleCoffee

After the revelation was made public, a representative from Puzzle Coffee confirmed that the cafe was made aware of the problem and apologised to their customers.

They stated, 'We were just informed by a customer yesterday and we have since removed the surcharges. We apologise to any customers affected and will be actively providing refunds.'

Key Takeaways

• A Melbourne café, Puzzle Coffee, is accused of 'blatant scamming' by a customer due to its mandatory card payment and subsequent surcharge policy.
• The customer highlighted that the café charges a 1.2 per cent surcharge on card payments yet does not display this surcharge in the price of goods, as is required by law under ACCC regulations.
• The café was made aware of the issue and has since removed the surcharges, apologising for the mistake and offering refunds to affected customers.
• The café confirmed it went cashless during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect staff and reduce theft by keeping no cash on the premises.

Despite the apology, the incident leaves us with a lingering aftertaste. So, our dear members, here are some practical tips for preventing such incidents:

1. Carefully check the displayed price and ask about any additional charges before paying.
2. Know your rights. If you spot something fishy, don't shy away from querying it.
3. Keep your receipts. It may sound old-fashioned, but receipts are your best bet when seeking refunds.

Have you encountered any instances where businesses implemented cashless payment policies but failed to disclose additional surcharges? How important is it for businesses to clearly display any extra charges associated with card transactions?

They cannot refuse to take coin of the realm. This discriminates aged people who do not have credit cards and wish only to deal in cash.

 

[Observer]

And boycott them

I already boycott one of them that takes cash and throws it in to an ice cream container under the counter and doesn't bother declaring it as an income. I boycott the same place because if you purchase with card they have a policy of a minimum $10 spend. I am sorry but l will not have them dictate how much spending l do in their coffee shop.

 

[Observer]

They cannot refuse to take coin of the realm. This discriminates aged people who do not have credit cards and wish only to deal in cash.

I agree. I have seen it many times before, where they do not declare cash as an income of sale. Asking for a receipt can keep them on the up and up.

 

[Jennylolo]

I already boycott one of them that takes cash and throws it in to an ice cream container under the counter and doesn't bother declaring it as an income. I boycott the same place because if you purchase with card they have a policy of a minimum $10 spend. I am sorry but l will not have them dictate how much spending l do in their coffee shop.

they can't do a minimum spend if there is no option but tp use the card.

 

[KSS]

They cannot refuse to take coin of the realm. This discriminates aged people who do not have credit cards and wish only to deal in cash.

Actually, they can, there is no law preventing them refusing to take cash. There ARE laws that say they must provide a fee-free payment method but that does not have to be cash. More's the pity. Have a look at your next telephone, electricity or other services bill. They charge fees for making cash payments even when in the Post Office! They get round it by making Bpay or Direct Debit the ONLY fee-free options.

 

[Observer]

they can't do a minimum spend if there is no option but to use the card.

This coffee shop does. I am very happy to name and shame them. Melba Coffee Shop Lilydale Melbourne

 

[KSS]

Personally, I refuse to use a card to make small purchases like coffee or a newspaper. I would simply leave the coffee on the counter and leave, taking my custom elsewhere! After all, one visit a day would be $25 a week which adds up if lots of customers did the same thing!

 

[KSS]

I already boycott one of them that takes cash and throws it in to an ice cream container under the counter and doesn't bother declaring it as an income. I boycott the same place because if you purchase with card they have a policy of a minimum $10 spend. I am sorry but l will not have them dictate how much spending l do in their coffee shop.

How do you know that money in the ice-cream container is not split between staff as tips? Of course tips should be declared to the tax man but seldom are!

 

[Observer]

How do you know that money in the ice-cream container is not split between staff as tips? Of course tips should be declared to the tax man but seldom are!

If a coffee costs you $5 it should be rung up straightaway and not thrown in to the container. Have seen them give change from that same container. If it is tips, then why would you remove the tips when giving a customer change?

 

[Robbo3006]

Gone are the leisurely days of strolling to the neighbourhood cafe, clutching a five-dollar note in our well-worn wallets, fantasising about the aromatic freshly brewed coffee that awaited us.

The present reality necessitates our ability to learn, comprehend, and adjust to new modes of transactions.

Whether it's scanning QR codes or making card payments, these are the modern requirements for indulging in that same cup of coffee.

Let's take a moment to explore the reasons behind our nation's rapid shift towards cashless transactions.

In Australia, card transactions have seen a significant surge in recent years, and it's not difficult to see the advantages: convenience, speed, and the relief of carrying lighter wallets.

However, before we all eagerly embrace the wave of digitisation, it's crucial to be aware of the potential pitfalls that come along with it.

View attachment 23787

Puzzle Coffee, the café in Melbourne, has faced allegations of scamming customers by exclusively accepting card payments that involve a surcharge. Source: Reddit/ OopsieShouTaoDoopsie.

A recent incident involving a coffee-loving customer sheds light on the potential drawbacks of the digital shift. Puzzle Coffee, a seemingly innocent establishment within Melbourne's bustling Southern Cross Station, has garnered attention for the wrong reasons.

The customer noticed two peculiar signs displayed at the shop's register. The first sign proudly declared their cashless policy, stating that only card payments were accepted.

While businesses have the right to choose their preferred payment method, it was the second sign that raised concerns. This sign indicated that every card transaction would incur a 1.2 per cent surcharge.

Here's an important point to remember: According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), businesses can impose a surcharge only if there is an alternative payment method available to customers without any additional charges.

‘If there's no way for a consumer to pay without paying a surcharge, the business must include the minimum surcharge payable in the displayed price for its products.’ the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) states.

View attachment 23788

A customer was purchasing a coffee from Puzzle Coffee, located in Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. Source: Instagram/ThePuzzleCoffee

After the revelation was made public, a representative from Puzzle Coffee confirmed that the cafe was made aware of the problem and apologised to their customers.

They stated, 'We were just informed by a customer yesterday and we have since removed the surcharges. We apologise to any customers affected and will be actively providing refunds.'

Key Takeaways

• A Melbourne café, Puzzle Coffee, is accused of 'blatant scamming' by a customer due to its mandatory card payment and subsequent surcharge policy.
• The customer highlighted that the café charges a 1.2 per cent surcharge on card payments yet does not display this surcharge in the price of goods, as is required by law under ACCC regulations.
• The café was made aware of the issue and has since removed the surcharges, apologising for the mistake and offering refunds to affected customers.
• The café confirmed it went cashless during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect staff and reduce theft by keeping no cash on the premises.

Despite the apology, the incident leaves us with a lingering aftertaste. So, our dear members, here are some practical tips for preventing such incidents:

1. Carefully check the displayed price and ask about any additional charges before paying.
2. Know your rights. If you spot something fishy, don't shy away from querying it.
3. Keep your receipts. It may sound old-fashioned, but receipts are your best bet when seeking refunds.

Have you encountered any instances where businesses implemented cashless payment policies but failed to disclose additional surcharges? How important is it for businesses to clearly display any extra charges associated with card transactions?

I don't like it when you pay with your savings account and get charged a transaction fee.

 

[KSS]

I don't like it when you pay with your savings account and get charged a transaction fee.

Me too paying a credit card fee on a debit card transaction is n ot on even if the debit card is linked to a transaction account not a savings account.

 

[Luckyus]

Gone are the leisurely days of strolling to the neighbourhood cafe, clutching a five-dollar note in our well-worn wallets, fantasising about the aromatic freshly brewed coffee that awaited us.

The present reality necessitates our ability to learn, comprehend, and adjust to new modes of transactions.

Whether it's scanning QR codes or making card payments, these are the modern requirements for indulging in that same cup of coffee.

Let's take a moment to explore the reasons behind our nation's rapid shift towards cashless transactions.

In Australia, card transactions have seen a significant surge in recent years, and it's not difficult to see the advantages: convenience, speed, and the relief of carrying lighter wallets.

However, before we all eagerly embrace the wave of digitisation, it's crucial to be aware of the potential pitfalls that come along with it.

View attachment 23787

Puzzle Coffee, the café in Melbourne, has faced allegations of scamming customers by exclusively accepting card payments that involve a surcharge. Source: Reddit/ OopsieShouTaoDoopsie.

A recent incident involving a coffee-loving customer sheds light on the potential drawbacks of the digital shift. Puzzle Coffee, a seemingly innocent establishment within Melbourne's bustling Southern Cross Station, has garnered attention for the wrong reasons.

The customer noticed two peculiar signs displayed at the shop's register. The first sign proudly declared their cashless policy, stating that only card payments were accepted.

While businesses have the right to choose their preferred payment method, it was the second sign that raised concerns. This sign indicated that every card transaction would incur a 1.2 per cent surcharge.

Here's an important point to remember: According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), businesses can impose a surcharge only if there is an alternative payment method available to customers without any additional charges.

‘If there's no way for a consumer to pay without paying a surcharge, the business must include the minimum surcharge payable in the displayed price for its products.’ the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) states.

View attachment 23788

A customer was purchasing a coffee from Puzzle Coffee, located in Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. Source: Instagram/ThePuzzleCoffee

After the revelation was made public, a representative from Puzzle Coffee confirmed that the cafe was made aware of the problem and apologised to their customers.

They stated, 'We were just informed by a customer yesterday and we have since removed the surcharges. We apologise to any customers affected and will be actively providing refunds.'

Key Takeaways

• A Melbourne café, Puzzle Coffee, is accused of 'blatant scamming' by a customer due to its mandatory card payment and subsequent surcharge policy.
• The customer highlighted that the café charges a 1.2 per cent surcharge on card payments yet does not display this surcharge in the price of goods, as is required by law under ACCC regulations.
• The café was made aware of the issue and has since removed the surcharges, apologising for the mistake and offering refunds to affected customers.
• The café confirmed it went cashless during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect staff and reduce theft by keeping no cash on the premises.

Despite the apology, the incident leaves us with a lingering aftertaste. So, our dear members, here are some practical tips for preventing such incidents:

1. Carefully check the displayed price and ask about any additional charges before paying.
2. Know your rights. If you spot something fishy, don't shy away from querying it.
3. Keep your receipts. It may sound old-fashioned, but receipts are your best bet when seeking refunds.

Have you encountered any instances where businesses implemented cashless payment policies but failed to disclose additional surcharges? How important is it for businesses to clearly display any extra charges associated with card transactions?

If a business doesn't except cash, then I'll go where they do.

 

[Penny4]

My local fruit shop has started charging a 1.1% extra charge, if I use my savings card. Next time, I will take cash.

 

[Pam White]

During Covid, some places refused to accept cash due to the dangers of passing on Covid. They were allowed to do this as long as they have a sign stating payment by card only. This still applies in WA. Some businesses discovered that it was very convenient not to have cash. They don't need to take cash out of the business at the end of the day, and risk being attacked. Or even robbed in the shop! I live in an area where the three banks have all closed, and the small businesses have to drive 10 kilometres or more to get to a branch where they can get change. Can prove difficult. I don't blame them for wanting people to use cards. It can be difficult for older people and others, but there are still enough businesses for them to use.