[aneth]

Not really. The 10% is required and disclosed, so it is no difference than raising the prices. Tips on the other hand are an imposition since they are both expected and discretionary.

Sure, the 10% could be included in the price and wages raised, but it doesn't make much difference. It's the difference between a VAT tax and a sales tax - in the end the amount is the same - sales tax is just more apparent to the consumer.

[jack-r-abbit]

I don't understand your logic that "required & fixed" is better than "expected & discretionary" but if that is how you feel then I'm not going to argue with you. We'll just disagree.