In a recent TikTok outburst, Aylin Avci, known by her handle @_staylina, has sparked controversy after alleging that Chick-fil-A charged her a fee for a brown bag during a mobile curbside order. The video, which has garnered over 260,000 views, features Avci expressing her discontent regarding the 10-cent charge, questioning the rationale behind being charged for a bag at a fast-food restaurant.
Avci’s receipt, which she shared in her video, showed the additional cost clearly marked. Although she admits to understanding the rationale behind bag fees in some retail contexts, she expressed confusion about their application at fast-food chains, asking, “What am I supposed to do… walk out holding it?”
This incident has revealed that she is not alone; another TikTok user commented about experiencing similar charges in Pennsylvania, as well as in New Jersey. According to regulations in Upper Merion Township, effective January 1, 2024, retail stores are permitted to charge a minimum of 10 cents per bag, a cost that must be listed separately on receipts. While establishments were previously required to notify customers of such fees with signage, this regulation will no longer be enforced after July 1, 2024.
Avci’s frustrations extended beyond the bag charge to broader concerns about changes at Chick-fil-A, including modifications to their rewards program, which she claimed now makes it more difficult to earn free items. With a growing chorus of disgruntled former customers echoing her sentiment—many highlighting rising costs and perceived declines in quality—Avci’s video reflects a larger conversation about consumer expectations and pricing within the fast-food industry.
Chick-fil-A has yet to comment publicly on the matter, but as the discourse continues, it may need to reassess customer satisfaction in light of these evolving dynamics.
