Bartenders work for tips, and pleasing customers is a critical skill.  Many bartenders will “buy” customers a drink (“one on the house” or “buy backs”) after three or more drink purchases.  Some industry consultants have a controversial position on this practice, labeling it as “bad” and “irresponsible” because it can lead to overconsumption.  It is also bad for business as it directly eats into the bar’s profits.  Giving away free drinks is “throwing away money” to some.  To others, it is a traditional and expected courtesy in the industry.

What do you think?