Originally Posted by bradfordboy
...presumably none of them provides a 'float' for the cabin crew or if they do then it is hopelessly inadequate.
Just like in any retail store, the float you start off with is somewhat limited by security. How much cash do you want to carry to work with you or leave in the "till" overnight? If the first three people all try to pay for small purchases with 20€ notes, you wont have much of your lovely float left. It's that simple and not it's not necessarily the fault of the airline or the staff.