Retail News CRM

Tag: McDonalds

  • Brands Step up Fandom Marketing as Gaming and BookTok Spur Billions in Retail Sales

    Brands Step up Fandom Marketing as Gaming and BookTok Spur Billions in Retail Sales

    Non-endemic consumer brands now account for 60 per cent of esports partnerships worldwide as corporate marketers redirect budgets toward gaming and social media subcultures across Asia and the West. Research conducted by Amazon Ads and Twitch Ads across 12 countries, including Japan and South Korea, found that 70 per cent of fans view these communities as part of daily life.

    The shift comes as consumer spending linked to online interest groups expands beyond traditional merchandise. In the gaming sector, a 2025 global study of more than 24,000 active players across 21 markets, including China, India, Japan and South Korea, established that the average player is 41 years old. The demographic splits evenly at 51 per cent male and 48 per cent female, dismantling long-held media assumptions about youth-only audiences.

    Brands outside the technology sector are buying into this scale. McDonald’s integrated Pokemon Trading Card Game products into Happy Meals, Lacoste launched a physical and digital line with Minecraft, and Elf Cosmetics constructed an interactive world inside Roblox. McKinsey research confirms that non-gaming companies now drive six in ten competitive gaming sponsorships.

    Publishing and Travel Ride Social Momentum

    A parallel surge is lifting physical book sales and related hospitality services. Analysis from NielsenIQ BookData and Media Control recorded more than 50 million book purchases across European retail markets in 2025 linked to TikTok’s #BookTok community, generating 800 million euros in revenue. In the United States, research group Circana tracked a 20 per cent annual rise in BookTok-driven book sales during 2024 to approximately 60 million units.

    The literary trend has bled directly into tourism and apparel. Travel platform Skyscanner reported that global hotel bookings using its library filter rose 70 per cent year-on-year in 2026. In late 2025, American leathergoods label Coach partnered with Reese Witherspoon’s Sunnie Reads club to operate reading pop-ups and sell book charms co-developed with Penguin Random House.

    Authenticity Determines Campaign Returns

    For retailers across the Asia-Pacific region, commercial tie-ins to niche communities offer far higher conversion rates than general broadcast advertising. While mainstream digital ad placements suffer from rising ad-fatigue, Amazon’s data shows 61 per cent of dedicated fans actively welcome brand-sponsored content. Another 64 per cent rely on digital platforms to source and purchase interest-specific products.

    Execution remains delicate. The Amazon study revealed that 54 per cent of respondents immediately detect insincere corporate messaging within their spaces. Marketers now track whether beauty and apparel brands can scale influencer partnerships among Asian creators before community engagement metrics normalize across major video platforms later this year.

  • McDonald’s and Red Bull Gear Up to Energize the Market with New Dragonberry Energizer Drink

    McDonald’s and Red Bull Gear Up to Energize the Market with New Dragonberry Energizer Drink

    McDonald’s USA has joined forces with Red Bull in a groundbreaking venture into the energy drink market, launching an innovative fruity energy beverage. This marks a key development for the fast-food chain, as it branches out into new product categories.

    Their latest offering, named ‘Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer’, is a unique blend of a classic Red Bull energy drink base, freeze-dried dragonfruit, and blue raspberry syrup. The beverage has been designed with customer preferences in mind, offering the option to customize it with a Red Bull Zero base for those seeking a lower-sugar alternative. The drink is also available in a 248ml can size.

    In line with the launch of the energy drink, McDonald’s is also augmenting its ‘crafted soda’ lineup. The new addition, called Vanilla Swirl, is a cold-foam vanilla additive designed to be paired with the existing Coca-Cola product range. Furthermore, McDonald’s is catering to health-conscious consumers with low-sugar beverage options, including Fanta, Diet Dr Pepper, Dr Pepper Zero Sugar, and Sprite Zero Sugar.

    Alyssa Buetikofer, CMO and CCO for McDonald’s US, expressed her excitement about these newly launched beverages. She stated, “Our crafted sodas and refreshers have been met with increasing enthusiasm, as consumers seek greater variety and options for every occasion. Our US customers gave the Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer rave reviews during initial testing, so we are thrilled to roll it out nationally to satisfy our customers’ energy needs.”

    The development of these innovative products follows a successful trial period in selected regional markets and strengthens McDonald’s existing range of specialized cold beverages. The Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer is slated for nationwide release across McDonald’s outlets on August 17.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new beverage introduced by McDonald’s in collaboration with Red Bull?
    The new beverage is called the ‘Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer’, which is a blend of a classic Red Bull energy drink base, blue raspberry syrup, and freeze-dried dragonfruit.

    What other drinks are being introduced by McDonald’s alongside the energy drink?
    McDonald’s is also expanding its ‘crafted soda’ lineup with the addition of Vanilla Swirl, a cold-foam vanilla additive intended to complement the existing Coca-Cola product range. It is also offering lower-sugar alternatives such as Fanta, Diet Dr Pepper, Dr Pepper Zero Sugar, and Sprite Zero Sugar.

    When is the Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer expected to launch?
    The Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer is scheduled to launch in McDonald’s restaurants across the US on August 17.

  • McDonalds Bags Premium Prices for Half of Its Hong Kong Properties Amidst Retail Downturn

    McDonalds Bags Premium Prices for Half of Its Hong Kong Properties Amidst Retail Downturn

    Despite the overall downturn in Hong Kong’s retail market, fast-food conglomerate McDonald’s has successfully managed to sell close to half of its 23 retail properties in the city at premium rates. The selling spree initiated in July of the previous year, in collaboration with property consulting firm JLL, has seen the fast-food giant yield approximately HKD 900 million (US$703 million) from the sale of 11 properties.

    Investor Interest in Prime Retail Real Estate

    Eunice Tang, JLL’s executive director of capital markets, has been overseeing the sale of six McDonald’s outlets. Tang elaborated that while the overall retail real estate market, particularly for properties valued above HKD 50 million, has been sluggish, these prime-located assets backed by a blue-chip tenant like McDonald’s have managed to pique the interest of high-net-worth buyers.

    As a part of its strategy, McDonald’s plans to sell all its 23 retail spaces, cumulatively valued at HKD 3 billion. However, the company intends to continue operations in these locations as tenants post their sale, ensuring no disruption to its citywide operations. Remarkably, McDonald’s has a network of 256 outlets in Hong Kong, many of which operate from rented spaces.

    The pace of sales, given the prevailing recession in Hong Kong’s retail real estate sector, is noteworthy. While McDonald’s continues to amass substantial gains over its historical purchase costs, other shops are being sold at rates 30% lower than their peak valuations or original asking prices.

    McDonald’s Sale & Lease-Back Agreements

    The McDonald’s outlets have been sold via sale-and-lease-back agreements, enabling the fast-food giant to continue operations under leases of up to 20 years. Most properties offer rental yields of over 6%, providing investors with steady income even as rents and capital values remain under pressure in the wider market.

    High-net-worth individuals, family offices, and seasoned private investors, including local investor Ng Yin and veteran investor Chang Yen-hsu (known as “Taiwan’s Chang”), have been among the buyers. Other purchasers include the Malaysian developer MB World Group and private investors from mainland China.

    The properties sold were initially owned by MCD Real Properties, a company associated with McDonald’s U.S. parent, and were retained post the local operating business’s sale to a Citic Capital-led consortium in 2017. Importantly, McDonald’s strategic approach of releasing its portfolio in phases rather than inundating the market has been commended by industry insiders for achieving these sales in this challenging market environment.

    However, the upcoming phase could present more difficulties, with several properties, including the flagship Star House shop in Tsim Sha Tsui, remaining unsold. Challenges in selling these remaining properties are not just related to their location but also to the larger ticket size and unconventional property specifications, which limit the pool of potential buyers.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the overall retail property market situation in Hong Kong?
    Given the ongoing recession, the retail property market in Hong Kong is experiencing a downturn. Many shops are trading at prices 30% lower than peak valuations or original asking prices.

    How has McDonald’s managed to sell its properties amid the market downturn?
    McDonald’s has strategically released its portfolio in phases rather than flooding the market all at once. The prime locations of its properties, the company’s reputation as a reliable blue-chip tenant, and the sale-and-lease-back agreement that allows for continued operations have attracted high-net-worth investors.

    What are some challenges in selling the remaining McDonald’s properties?
    The remaining properties, including the flagship Star House shop in Tsim Sha Tsui, have larger ticket sizes and unconventional specifications, which limit the potential pool of buyers. These factors, combined with the current market conditions, may pose challenges in the upcoming sales phase.

  • McDonald’s Malaysia Unveils $254M Expansion: 100 New Restaurants, Digital Boost, and 10,000 Jobs on the Horizon

    McDonald’s Malaysia Unveils $254M Expansion: 100 New Restaurants, Digital Boost, and 10,000 Jobs on the Horizon

    McDonald’s Malaysia has announced an aggressive expansion plan that involves an investment of RM1 billion (approximately $254 million) over the next five years. The investment will be used to open 100 new outlets, revamp existing restaurants, and enhance the company’s digital capabilities.

    Allocation of Funds and Expansion Strategy

    Datuk Azmir Jaafar, Managing Director and Local Operating Partner, shared that a majority of the investment, around 60%, will be used for the launch of new restaurants. 20% of the funds will be directed towards the modernization of over 150 existing branches of McDonald’s in Malaysia. The remaining 20% will be invested in technology and digitalization initiatives.

    The expansion plan was revealed during a press conference following the reopening of the first McDonald’s drive-thru outlet in the country, located at Jalan Pahang, Titiwangsa. Jaafar expressed the company’s intention to broaden its reach in Sabah, Sarawak, and throughout Peninsular Malaysia, with a specific focus on areas with high demand and those popular among tourists.

    Jaafar explained, “There is considerable growth potential in Sabah and Sarawak, as these regions have many towns that are yet to house a McDonald’s outlet. We also aim to expand in the Klang Valley and in other high-growth locations within Peninsular Malaysia.”

    Building a Strong Franchise Network

    Additionally, McDonald’s Malaysia intends to enhance its franchise network. Currently, 11 franchisees nationwide operate 25 outlets. The goal is to establish between 70 and 100 restaurants within the next five to ten years.

    Jaafar underscored the promising return on investment in franchising. “A substantial investment of about MYR5 million to MYR7 million is needed per restaurant. The payback period is typically three to five years, indicating a healthy return,” he stated.

    Job Creation and Operational Efficiency

    This ambitious expansion is expected to generate over 10,000 new job opportunities for locals, in line with McDonald’s Malaysia’s hiring policy of employing only local workers.

    Despite a challenging business environment, the quick-service restaurant chain has already witnessed a 26% year-on-year growth in 2025, operating more than 370 outlets across the country.

    Jaafar stressed the importance of operational efficiency to maintain competitive menu prices. “In 2025, our menu price increase was about half of Malaysia’s inflation rate. This was due to continuous improvements in supply chain efficiency and restaurant operations,” he elaborated.

    After being a part of the Malaysian landscape for 43 years, McDonald’s Malaysia continues to contribute towards nation-building. The company aims to do so by creating jobs, providing skills training, supporting local suppliers, and getting involved in community activities.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the investment plan of McDonald’s Malaysia?
    McDonald’s Malaysia plans to invest RM1 billion over the next five years to open 100 new restaurants, upgrade existing outlets, and enhance its digital capabilities.

    How does McDonald’s Malaysia plan to allocate the investment funds?
    60% of the funds will be used to open new restaurants, 20% will be allocated towards the modernization of existing branches, and the remaining 20% will be invested in technology and digitalization initiatives.

    What is McDonald’s Malaysia’s franchising plan?
    McDonald’s Malaysia aims to expand its franchise network from the current 25 outlets run by 11 franchisees nationwide to between 70 and 100 restaurants over the next five to ten years.

  • End of an Era: Iconic McDonald’s Outlet at Tampines Mall Singapore Closes After 30 Years

    End of an Era: Iconic McDonald’s Outlet at Tampines Mall Singapore Closes After 30 Years

    One of McDonald’s long-standing outlets in Tampines Mall, Singapore, is set to close its doors on March 9. The fast-food restaurant has been a staple of the mall for over three decades, making its impending closure a significant moment for both the company and the many customers it has served over the years.

    The Closure Announcement

    The fast-food giant’s intended closure was announced via a store notice, which was then shared on social media on Tuesday. The notice revealed that the restaurant’s final day of operation would be March 8. While no specific reason was provided for the closure, the message expressed gratitude to the customers for their continued support through the years.

    The notice also assured patrons that while this particular outlet may be closing, the restaurant would be thrilled to serve them at their nearest branches. The Tampines Central and Tampines Hub were suggested as alternative locations for customers to visit.

    A Staple at Tampines Mall

    The McDonald’s outlet has been an integral part of Tampines Mall since its inception in November 1995. As one of the mall’s original tenants, its closure marks the end of an era. The mall, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2025, has seen many businesses come and go, but McDonald’s has remained a constant presence.

    The closure announcement has elicited feelings of nostalgia and sadness among patrons, many of whom consider the outlet to be an iconic part of the mall. Its strategic location near the entrance of the shopping complex means that for many, a trip to the mall was synonymous with passing by the McDonald’s store.

    Changes in Singapore’s Food Scene

    McDonald’s announcement follows a series of closures in Singapore’s food and beverage sector. In 2025 alone, 2,431 outlets were shut down in the first 10 months. The closures spanned a range of eateries, from Michelin-starred restaurants to long-standing heritage dining venues.

    In addition to the food scene, the retail sector has also seen significant changes. Isetan, a Japanese department store that had been operating in the mall for several decades, closed its outlet four months prior to McDonald’s announcement. The store cited evolving market conditions as the reason behind its departure.

    Questions & Answers

    Why is the McDonald’s outlet in Tampines Mall closing?
    While no specific reason was given for the closure, it comes amid a wave of business closures across Singapore’s food and drink sector.

    When was the last day of operation for the McDonald’s outlet in Tampines Mall?
    The outlet’s final day of operation was slated for March 8.

    Are there other McDonald’s outlets nearby where customers can go?
    Yes, the notice mentioned that customers could visit the McDonald’s branches at Tampines Central and Tampines Hub.

  • McDonald’s Vietnam Amplifies Expansion Strategy: Aiming for 100 Stores in Three Years

    McDonald’s Vietnam Amplifies Expansion Strategy: Aiming for 100 Stores in Three Years

    McDonald’s Vietnam is reigniting its goal of expanding its presence in the country to 100 outlets within three years. This ambitious plan comes after the fast-food giant fell well short of its target, with only 35 locations in 2024 and 39 this current year.

    Revamping the Expansion Strategy

    The Director of Development at McDonald’s Vietnam, Dan Ta, revealed a number of strategies the company is considering to revamp its image, pricing, and expansion strategy. Emphasizing a shift towards a wider consumer base, he said, “Our brand is currently perceived as a premium establishment, but we want to be able to serve a wider range of customers.”

    Targeting Key Cities for Expansion

    McDonald’s is setting its sights on several key cities for growth, including Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Hue, Nha Trang, Da Lat, and Vung Tau, building on its existing presence in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. Phu Quoc, in particular, has emerged as a significant focus for expansion, given its new airline launch and the upcoming hosting of the Apec Summit next year.

    Challenges Ahead

    However, the road to McDonald’s expansion in Vietnam may be fraught with challenges. The popularity of local staples such as bánh mì, cheaper and deeply rooted in the eating habits of Vietnamese consumers, poses a significant challenge.

    Moreover, the competitive landscape of the Vietnamese fast-food market also presents a hurdle. According to recent data, some of the top fast-food chains in the country, include Lotteria, with 222 outlets, Jollibee, with 213 outlets, and KFC, with 172 outlets.

    Ralf Matthaes, CEO of IFM Research, located in Ho Chi Minh City, pointed out that McDonald’s Vietnam has not localized its offerings as deeply as some competitors. He stated, “Vietnamese people aren’t typically burger eaters. Essentially, a Big Mac is still a Big Mac – you can’t change that.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is McDonald’s Vietnam’s expansion goal?
    McDonald’s Vietnam aims to expand its presence in the country to 100 outlets within three years.

    What challenges does McDonald’s face in its expansion in Vietnam?
    McDonald’s faces challenges in its expansion in Vietnam due to the popularity of local staples such as bánh mì and a highly competitive fast-food market.

    What cities are targeted in McDonald’s Vietnam expansion plan?
    McDonald’s Vietnam is targeting expansion in several key cities, including Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Hue, Nha Trang, Da Lat, and Vung Tau, in addition to its existing presence in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

  • “McDonald’s Records Sweeping Sales Surge Globally Amidst Challenging Environment”

    “McDonald’s Records Sweeping Sales Surge Globally Amidst Challenging Environment”

    McDonald’s has recorded another quarter of increasing sales, largely credited to the firm’s emphasis on providing value. This success has been observed across all markets.

    Global and Domestic Sales Growth

    Global sales, comparable to the previous year, rose by 3.6% for the third quarter, which concluded on September 30. This growth succeeds a 2nd quarter increase of 3.8%.

    In the United States, sales showed continued positive progress, with a boost of 2.4%, mainly driven by check growth. International markets also performed well, resulting in a 4.3% improvement. Germany and Australia were notably strong performers in this segment.

    Performance of Licensed Markets and Overall Sales

    Sales in international developmental licensed markets demonstrated robust growth, with a rise of 4.7%. This trend was evident across all geographical regions, with Japan leading the pack.

    For the quarter, global system-wide sales exceeded $36 billion, showing an 8% increase on a reported basis and a 6% rise in constant currency.

    Management Commentary

    McDonald’s Chairman and CEO, Chris Kempczinski, commented that the company managed to yield “sustainable growth” even amidst challenging circumstances. He acknowledged that their focus on delivering everyday value and affordability, menu innovation, and effective marketing strategies continues to draw customers.

    Net Income

    In terms of net income, the fast-food giant saw an increase of 1% to $2.27 billion.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the increase in McDonald’s global comparable sales for the third quarter?
    The increase was 3.6% year-on-year.

    Which markets showed notable improvement in the international operated segment?
    Germany and Australia showed significant improvement in this segment.

    What was McDonald’s net income for the reported quarter?
    The company’s net income for the quarter was $2.27 billion, a 1% increase.

  • Mcdonald’s To Boost Ai Investment By 2027, Eyes India As Data Governance Hub

    Mcdonald’s To Boost Ai Investment By 2027, Eyes India As Data Governance Hub

    McDonald’s, the renowned fast-food chain, has announced its intention to significantly increase its investment in artificial intelligence (AI) by 2027, foreseeing India as a principal center for data governance, engineering, and platform architecture. The news was delivered by Deshant Kaila, McDonald’s Head of Global Business Services Operations, last Friday.

    India as a Key Player

    McDonald’s, which made its foray into India in 1996, has a wide network of restaurants across the nation. The company recently opened a global office in the southern city of Hyderabad, which they plan to expand into their largest international office outside of the United States.

    While the company is still in the early phases of this AI-focused initiative, the exact amount of intended investment remains undisclosed. However, Kaila has given some insights into how McDonald’s is utilizing AI technologies to enhance its operations and services.

    Artificial Intelligence in Operations

    At present, McDonald’s is leveraging AI to corroborate orders at 400 of its restaurants, mitigating errors before orders reach customers. The company has set ambitious plans to extend this AI-driven order verification system to 40,000 of its locations worldwide by 2027, as revealed by Durga Prakash, Head of Technology (Global Offices).

    Moreover, AI tools are being employed by McDonald’s to project sales, determine pricing, and evaluate product performance. The fast-food chain is also developing a personalized app that customers can use globally. As per Kaila, the strategic push in India will be primarily focused on building its AI team, with more investment directed towards technology and tools rather than personnel.

    Expansion of Global Offices

    McDonald’s is also considering establishing another global office in Poland, similar to the ones in India and Mexico. Earlier this year, it was reported that the company would inaugurate a global capability center in Hyderabad, India, which is expected to employ about 2000 individuals.

    India’s global capability centers, formerly cost-effective outsourcing hubs for global businesses, have evolved and now provide support to their parent organizations across diverse areas, including operations, finance, research, and development.

    Questions & Answers

    What is McDonald’s strategy for AI investment by 2027?

    McDonald’s plans to significantly increase its investment in artificial intelligence (AI) by 2027. The company aims to utilize AI to improve operations, predict sales, set pricing, and evaluate product performance.

    How does McDonald’s plan to utilize AI in its operations?

    The fast-food chain is currently using AI to verify orders at certain locations to prevent errors before handing them over to customers. It is also using AI tools for sales forecasting, pricing decisions, and product performance assessments.

    Why is India a focus in McDonald’s AI strategy?

    India is a key focus in McDonald’s AI strategy due to its potential as a hub for data governance, engineering, and platform architecture. In addition, the company has recently opened a global office in Hyderabad, India, with plans to make it the largest outside the U.S.

  • McDonald’s to sell Hong Kong retail spaces valued at US$153 million

    McDonald’s to sell Hong Kong retail spaces valued at US$153 million

    Fast-food giant McDonald’s has announced plans to sell eight top-tier retail properties in Hong Kong, collectively estimated to be worth HK$1.2 billion (US$152.89 million). Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), appointed as the exclusive agent for the sale, reported the news earlier this week.

    The properties will be sold via public tender, with the process scheduled to conclude on September 16. Buyers will have the flexibility to purchase the properties either separately or as a comprehensive portfolio. All the properties come with enduring leases with McDonald’s, which adds to their appeal.

    Previously, there had been reports that McDonald’s was considering selling all of its 23 stores in Hong Kong, the total market value of which is roughly HK$3 billion (US$382 million). The current sale of eight stores represents the first phase of this broader asset disposal strategy.

    This move is part of McDonald’s larger efforts to refine its asset base in the region. In 2017, McDonald’s sold its 20-year master franchise rights for China and Hong Kong to a consortium led by Citic Group and private equity firm Carlyle, while maintaining ownership of its real estate portfolio.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the estimated market value of the eight Hong Kong properties that McDonald’s plans to sell?
    The total market value of the eight properties is estimated to be around HK$1.2 billion (US$152.89 million).

    How will the sale of these properties be conducted?
    The sale will occur via public tender and is scheduled to conclude on September 16.

    What is McDonald’s broader strategy for its assets in the region?
    This sale is part of McDonald’s larger efforts to optimize its regional asset base. The company previously sold its 20-year master franchise rights for China and Hong Kong to a consortium, while retaining ownership of its real estate portfolio.

  • Ex McDonald’s Korea CEO to take leading role in Homeplus

    Ex McDonald’s Korea CEO to take leading role in Homeplus

    South Korean supermarket chain Homeplus has appointed former CEO of McDonald’s Korea Cho Ju-yeon as its new chief marketing officer, in an executive reshuffle announced on Thursday.

    Cho made headlines in 2016 when she became the first female CEO at the South Korean unit of the fast-food restaurant.

    Hwang Jeong-wook, who formerly served as the chief financial officer at the Korean unit of AstraZeneca, will become the new chief financial officer at Homeplus.

    The move comes as the company seeks to strengthen professionalism and product sourcing capabilities by hiring new executives externally and separating the department in charge of products into two, the supermarket chain said.

    One team, led by the company‘s executive Kim Woong, will focus on fresh food, bakeries, home appliances and product support and safety. The other team, which will be led by newly appointed executive Oh Jae-yong, will focus on groceries, private label products and fashion and interior design products.

    The decision follows the appointment of current CEO Lee Jea-hoon earlier this year.

    “Through the reorganization, we want to present a clear reason why customers want to visit Homeplus,” Lee said in a statement.

    Lees ook:

  • The enormous cost of McDonald’s Russian exit

    The enormous cost of McDonald’s Russian exit

    McDonald’s became the symbol of glasnost in action 30 years ago when it opened its first restaurant in Moscow. But after temporarily shutting down more than 800 restaurants following the invasion of Ukraine, McDonald’s has decided to leave Russia altogether.

    The burger chain will sell its Russia business, saying the “humanitarian crisis caused by the war in Ukraine, and the precipitating unpredictable operating environment, have led McDonald’s to conclude that continued ownership of the business in Russia is no longer tenable, nor is it consistent with McDonald’s values.”
    In March, shortly after the war began, McDonald’s followed other Western companies and temporarily shut down its restaurants in Russia.
    Once the sale is finalized, the Russian restaurants will be “de-Arched,” meaning the locations will no longer be allowed to use the McDonald’s name, logo or menu. McDonald’s said its employees will still be paid until the transaction closes and that “employees have future employment with any potential buyer.”
    CEO Chris Kempczinski said he’s proud of the more than 60,000 workers employed in Russia and said the decision was “extremely difficult.”
    “However, we have a commitment to our global community and must remain steadfast in our values. And our commitment to our values means that we can no longer keep the Arches shining there,” he said.
    The decision brings to a remarkable end McDonald’s three-decade relationship with Russia. McDonald’s opened the doors of its first restaurant in Moscow on January 31, 1990. More than 30,000 were served and the Pushkin Square location had to stay open hours later than planned because of the crowds.
    Its arrival in Moscow was about more than just Big Macs and fries, noted Darra Goldstein, a Russia expert at Williams College. It was the most prominent example of Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbechev’s attempt to open up his crumbling country to the outside world.
    “There was a really visible crack in the Iron Curtain,” she previously said. “It was very symbolic about the changes that were taking place.” About two years later, the Soviet Union would collapse.
    McDonald’s exit “represents a new isolationism in Russia, which must now look inward for investment and consumer brand development,” said Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData said in a note Monday. He added that other Western brands take “principled stance on the concepts of freedom and democracy” and revisit their businesses in Russia.
    McDonald’s will take a significant write-off from exiting Russia — between $1.2 billion to $1.4 billion. Shares were barely changed in early trading.
    “The fact that McDonald’s owns most of its restaurants in Russia means there is an asset rich business to sell,” said Saunders. “However, given the circumstances of the sale, the financial challenges faced by potential Russian buyers, and the fact that McDonald’s will not license its brand name or identity, it is unlikely the sale price will be anywhere near the pre-invasion book value of the business.”
    In its most recent earnings report, McDonald’s said closing its restaurants in Russia had cost it $127 million last quarter. Nearly $27 million came from staff costs, payments for leases and supplies. The other $100 million was from food and other items it will have to dump.
    McDonald’s had 847 restaurants in Russia at the close of last year, according to an investor document. Together with another 108 in Ukraine, they accounted for 9% of the company’s revenue in 2021.
    Lees ook:

  • McDonald’s faces massive court claim over ‘shameful’ worker treatment

    McDonald’s faces massive court claim over ‘shameful’ worker treatment

    Trade union SDA has lodged a multimillion claim in the Federal Court against McDonald’s Australia seeking compensation for about 900 current and former employees the union alleges have been denied paid rest breaks and misled about their rights.

    The action covers more than 110 restaurants across Australia directly owned and operated by the fast-food company and follows eight previous Federal Court claims lodged by the SDA against McDonald’s franchise operators.

    The claim, lodged in South Australia, is currently on behalf of 338 current and former McDonald’s staff employed across 92 restaurants, but the union is actively talking to others and has opened a website to recruit people who have worked for the company during the past six years, to join the action.

    SDA national secretary, Gerard Dwyer describes the case as the biggest of its kind in Australian history, and “a groundbreaking moment for some of the most vulnerable workers across the country”.

    “The fact that one of the largest employers of young Australians (on junior rates of pay) has been deliberately and systematically denying teenagers their breaks is astonishing. It takes a lot of courage to openly stand up and speak out against their employer and the SDA is proud to stand with them in ensuring these workers get what they’re owed.”

    He said the action has the potential to impact thousands of workers Australia-wide and lead to millions of dollars of compensation payments if successful.

    The union wants affected workers to be paid compensation for working through their breaks and for the company to be penalised by the court for breaching the Fair Work Act.

    It alleges that along with concealing employees’ meal break entitlements, many store managers told workers they could have a free soft drink in lieu of a paid rest break and that they didn’t receive the breaks as they could go to the toilet or have a drink whenever they needed to. The SDA says the law provides for a 10-minute break for any staff member who works a shift of four hours or more.

    “McDonald’s have been feeding crew members a cock and bull story about their break entitlements for too long,” said SDA South Australian branch secretary, Josh Peak.

    “Fast food restaurants are busy, hot and the work is exhausting – it’s shameful to think young workers have been denied their rightful breaks and told they don’t exist. Paid rest and drink breaks aren’t optional, they’re a right for all fast-food workers,” he said.

    “It shouldn’t have to take nine Federal Court claims for McDonald’s to clean up their act.”

  • McDonald’s Yagoona store reopens, 50 years since first restaurant unveiled

    McDonald’s Yagoona store reopens, 50 years since first restaurant unveiled

    McDonald’s is stepping back in time and reopening Australia’s first restaurant in Yagoona. Celebrating 50 years since the very first Macca’s opened its doors in December 1971, the new McDonald’s Yagoona will open on Friday and adopt its original 1970s prices. From 11 am to 1 pm on opening day the humble hamburger will be just 20 cents each, with a limit of four per customer, so you’ll need to get in quick to take advantage of the deal.

    Celebrating 50 years since the very first Macca’s opened its doors in December 1971, the new McDonald’s Yagoona will open on Friday and adopt its original 1970s prices

    The interior of the restaurant will reflect the original décor from half a century ago with a historic timeline on the wall, images of the 1971 restaurant, and a Happy Meal display with iconic toys from across the years.

    ‘We are incredibly proud to reopen McDonald’s Yagoona and recognize its important part of our history,’ Chief Executive Officer for McDonald’s Australia Andrew Gregory said.

    ‘Everything our customers know and love about McDonald’s Australia started at Yagoona from Happy Meals and birthday parties to first jobs and community contribution.

    The interior of the restaurant will reflect the original décor from half a century ago with a historic timeline on the wall, images of the 1971 restaurant, and a Happy Meal display with iconic toys from across the years

    ‘The reopening celebrates 50 years of supporting our customers, people, and communities in Australia. We look forward to once again serving the local community and welcoming back customers from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.’

    The new restaurant will operate 24 hours a day and feature a McCafé, dual-lane drive-thru, dedicated delivery partner room, and PlayPlace.

    In addition to the 20 cent hamburger, McDonald’s Yagoona will also sell $1 cheeseburgers and $2 coffee from December 17 to January 7 as part of a special promotion for customers.

    Lees ook:

  • McDonald’s implements global inclusive workplace initiative

    McDonald’s implements global inclusive workplace initiative

    McDonald’s has unveiled an initiative to foster safe and inclusive workplace it calls Global Brand Standards.

    The policy will focus on four main areas: harassment, discrimination, and retaliation prevention; workplace violence prevention; restaurant employee feedback; and health and safety. The company says the standards have been set to further ensure physical and psychological safety for its employees and customers.

    “There are no shortcuts to ensuring that people feel safe, respected, and included at a McDonald’s restaurant,” said Chris Kempczinski, president and CEO of McDonald’s. “Our new Global Brand Standards reinforce our commitment to living our values such that at every interaction, everyone is welcome, comfortable and safe.”

    These standards will be implemented across 39,000 McDonald’s restaurants in more than 100 countries. From January, restaurants will be assessed and held accountable in accordance with the applicable McDonald’s market’s business evaluation processes. Training and reporting mechanisms will be established.

    McDonald’s said it will work closely with independent and third-party experts to support the implementation of the standards for franchisees.

    “McDonald’s has a responsibility and an opportunity to use our tremendous scale to drive change globally,” said Reto Egger, speaker group chair of the European Franchisee Leadership Group (EFLG) and franchise owner.

    “These refreshed standards and heightened measures of accountability are central to our culture, our business goals and the need in our society to foster more respect, safety, and inclusion.”

    Lees ook:

  • McDonald’s logo temporary changed to promote social distancing

    McDonald’s logo temporary changed to promote social distancing

    International fast-food chain McDonald’s logo has been altered in some global markets to emphasize the importance of social distancing during the coronavirus crisis.

    The popular restaurant chain is largely closed for dine-in business in certain hard-hit areas globally but remains open for delivery or takeout. Venues have been closed completely in the UK and Ireland, while only 5 percent of outlets in the US are now closing dining spaces.

    The new McDonald’s logo campaign was unveiled in Brazil, with the golden arches represented in the brand logo separated to remind patrons of the need to keep a distance from each other during the course of the pandemic. The campaign was soon taken up in India.

    “Our customers, employees and communities are counting on us now more than ever to provide them the meaningful support, delicious food and good-paying jobs,” said McDonald’s US president Joe Erlinger.

    A statement from the firm read: “Guidelines have been shared with franchisees and restaurant general managers to support crew in adhering to social distancing best practices while on the job. This includes, among other items, updating configuration of crew on shift and following contactless operations procedures, etc”.

    https://youtu.be/BFgW4S6zOQU

    Lees ook:

    Lees ook: