Late last month, I spent some time vacationing in Germany and France. Like the US, Europe is facing inflation and higher costs- I was prepared that this trip might cost us a bit, but I was pleasantly surprised by what we experienced. The one area that surprised me the most was dining. I found that for dining the price transparency surrounding our meals was greatly appreciated. The cost of the meal ALWAYS came to the price on the menu – tipping was completely optional and could only be done if left in euros or if I advised the server what the total should be when using a credit card. When charging to a card there never as an “additional” processing fee for that convenience and there was never a “suggested” tip amount for me to consider. Here in the US – it’s hard to find that type of price transparency in most places. But there are some veterinary practices (both corporate and independent) that are trying to do this. For some it’s a way to encourage participation in membership plans by highlighting the “savings” that members receive and for others it may be a way to differentiate their services from competitors. In an economy with inflation and concerns about cost- transparency is more appreciated than ever.
Dr. Christine Merle, Editor
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