The following was in the other thread that got closed and is the wording from the union contract about how parties of 8 or more should be handled.....
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Service Charge for Parties of Eight (8) or More
An eighteen percent (18%) service charge will be included on all guest checks of groups of eight (8) or more.
1. The guests will be advised of the policy by the first Host/Hostess (i.e., DRC, Guest Services, Concierge, or Seating Host/Hostess) to accept the guest's reservations.
2. In addition to the above, the policy will be printed on the menus.
3. If a party of eight (8) or more, regardless of reservation size, arrives and is seated at the same table and receives separate checks, the automatic service charge shall apply.
4. If a party of eight (8) or more arrives and, for whatever reason, is split and seated at separate tables, with the same server regardless of the number of checks, the automatic service charge shall apply.
5. If the party of eight (8) or more arrives and, for whatever reason, is split, seated at separate tables with different servers, receives separate checks, and these checks are paid for by separate individuals, the automatic service charge does not apply.
6. In situations where our guests refuse to comply with our policy, it will be the responsibility of the service person to locate a Manager prior to the guests leaving the restaurant so that Management can speak with the guests. If the service person fails to involve a Manager in the situation prior to the guests departing the restaurant, or receives discipline for poor service, the Company will not be responsible for the difference between what the guest left and eighteen percent (18%) of the guest's food and beverage total.
7. The eighteen percent (18%) service charge will be automatically added to the guest check and will be calculated on the food and beverage totals. The server will not be required to inform the guest that a service charge has been included, unless he/she is asked by the guest.
And as far as enforcement, I posted the following on that same thread:
They'll enforce it by adding the 18% to your check or presenting you with a check for the 18%.
If you choose to not pay, the manager will make an appearance & if you still don't anti up, security may be called in and you could be ejected from the park (especially if you're a day guest staying off property).
If you're notified of the charge, whether on the phone, by the hostess or on the menu, and continue to dine at the restaurant you're agreeing to pay it.
The other option would be for them to charge the 18% to your room, even if a CC isn't given at check in. Then, the resort would require you to pay your bill before check-out and if you don't, a bill would be mailed to your house (just like in cases where there's room damage).
Once again, flame away if you'd like, but has anyone considered that
maybe the reason for all of the proposed changes (both DDP, DDE and even room rate increases) is a result from so many people nickle & diming WDW to death?