‘He ran away’
15:45, 02 Jul 2026Updated 15:51, 02 Jul 2026
Cozy Cafe have shared an image of the alleged culprit.(Image: Cozy Cafe)
Owners of a Leith cafe have slammed the actions of a man who allegedly nicked their staff tip jar.
Cozy Cafe on Ferry Road claimed the pot was stolen shortly after 4.15pm on Wednesday July 1.
A blurred image of the alleged culprit was posted on their social media with the business asking for the individual to come forward. The pictures showed a bald middle aged male wearing a Scotland t-shirt.
Speaking to Edinburgh Live, a staff member said: “This guy came into our cafe while our colleague was preparing for the next day in the kitchen. He grabbed the tip jar which was next to our epos system and ran away.
“My colleague noticed but couldn’t run after him because she thought it wasn’t safe to do so. She was quite disturbed by this situation. Other colleagues are also concerned about this situation.”
In a post on the local I Love Leith Facebook page, the business said the tips belonged to hardworking team members who earned them through their kindness and dedication.
They pleaded for anyone with relevant information to come forward and threatened to take the matter to police if the issue was left unresolved.
But within 24 hours of reporting the theft, the cafe’s community had rallied round them, with customers offering to replace the stolen tips.
Cosy Cafe shared on Thursday July 2: “We just wanted to say a huge thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind words, shared our post, and shown support over the last day. What happened was upsetting for our team, but the response from our local community has reminded us why we love being part of this neighbourhood.
“Your kindness, encouragement, and willingness to help means far more to us than you know. We’re especially grateful to everyone who has offered to replace the stolen tips or support our staff.
“Your generosity has truly touched us. While the stolen tips can be replaced, it’s the sense of community and care you’ve shown that means the most.
“Thank you for standing with us and supporting our small café. We feel incredibly lucky to have such amazing customers and neighbours. From all of us, thank you.”
It is understood Police Scotland are yet to be contacted regarding the alleged theft.