Consumers must be informed about service charges before ordering

The Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) reminds consumers that they must be clearly informed about any applicable service charge before placing their order.

Any applicable service charge must be clearly and visibly indicated on the menu or price list made available to consumers before they place their order. This ensures that consumers are aware of any applicable charges in advance and can make an informed decision.

The MCCAA emphasises that consumers should not become aware of a service charge for the first time when they receive the bill. Information relating to prices, including any mandatory additional charges, must be provided clearly and transparently before the consumer places an order.

Accordingly, the Authority encourages restaurants and other catering establishments to review their menus and pricing information and ensure that any service charge is clearly communicated to consumers before they place their order.

Consumers, for their part, are encouraged to check the menu and any applicable charges before ordering. Anyone who believes that a service charge has been applied without being adequately informed beforehand may contact the MCCAA (mccaa.org.mt) and provide the relevant details and documentation, including, where available, a copy of the menu and the receipt.