Cancún Bars Try Paying Staff Only Tips—CTM Fights Back

Cancún, Mexico — The Confederation of Mexican Workers (CTM) has raised concerns over reports that certain bars and restaurants in Cancún are attempting to normalize paying employees exclusively through tips, bypassing legally mandated wages. Isidro Santamaria Casanova, the organization’s secretary general, called on workers in the food and beverage sector to unionize to ensure legal protection against such practices.

Tips as a Complement, Not a Substitute for Wages

Santamaria Casanova stated that the CTM has received multiple reports of businesses attempting to shift payroll obligations onto customer gratuities.

“We have become aware of this issue, and when asked what we are doing about it, our response is clear: We are actively encouraging these workers to join the union so we can provide them with support, guidance, and legal representation if necessary,” he said.

The labor leader emphasized that under Mexican law, tips cannot replace a worker’s base salary. The Federal Labor Law explicitly guarantees all employees—including waitstaff—at least the minimum wage, which cannot be offset by tips, commissions, or other forms of compensation.

Legal Protections and Union Advocacy

Santamaria Casanova reiterated that the CTM would fully back any legal action taken by affected workers but stressed that union membership is essential for such support.

“Unfortunately, the economic desperation of many workers blinds them to these abuses,” he said. “We have heard numerous cases, but the immediate need for income often prevents employees from speaking out.”

He further clarified that tips are legally recognized as supplementary income, not a replacement for wages. “The law is clear: Tips are an additional benefit, not a substitute for a worker’s base salary—not even partially,” he stated.

A Call to Action for Workers

The CTM’s warning comes amid growing scrutiny of labor practices in Cancún’s hospitality sector, a key economic driver in Quintana Roo. The organization urged employees in restaurants and bars to unionize to safeguard their rights and ensure fair compensation.

“Workers must understand that their tips are part of their earnings, but they are entitled to a guaranteed wage,” Santamaria Casanova concluded.