Qerko app introduces three-crown fee, angers diners
Translated from Czech, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The popular Qerko app, which allows restaurant patrons to pay separately via QR code, has introduced a three-crown fee.
- Customers are complaining about the new charge, stating they were not informed and find it unfair as the service saves staff time.
- The fee has angered users, who previously relied on the app to avoid queues and simplify bill splitting.
Qerko, a service praised for streamlining restaurant payments, is facing backlash from its users after implementing a new three-crown fee. The app, widely used for its convenience in splitting bills and paying individually via mobile phone, has angered customers who feel blindsided by the charge.
Many users took to social media and review platforms to express their frustration. They argue that the fee is unfair, especially since the app's primary function is to save time for both customers and restaurant staff by eliminating the need to wait at the cashier. Patrons claim they were not adequately notified about the new charge before it was applied to their bills.
The app's popularity surged due to its ability to simplify the often-cumbersome process of dividing restaurant checks among a group. Users could simply scan a QR code, select their items, and pay their portion directly from their phones, allowing them to leave without waiting for the entire bill to be settled or for the cashier to process individual payments.
However, this new three-crown surcharge has turned a convenient service into a point of contention. Critics argue that paying extra for a feature that inherently reduces workload for the establishment is illogical and exploitative. The lack of clear prior communication has further fueled the anger, with many feeling deceived by the company's decision.
Originally published by iDNES in Czech. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.