An employee at McDonald’s has expressed concerns about the company’s workplace culture, stating that there is still room for improvement.
Referred to as Matty to protect their identity, the worker mentioned that discussions about personal matters, including sex life, were common among managers and colleagues. However, Matty acknowledged recent positive changes, noting a shift towards a more professional environment. Having been with McDonald’s since the age of 16, initially as a student, Matty cautioned potential employees to carefully consider joining the company.
Another former employee, who chose to stay anonymous, reported minimal improvement in the work environment before departing for a new job earlier this year. When asked if conditions had gotten better, the response was negative.
These observations coincided with McDonald’s announcement of additional actions agreed upon with the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) in the UK to combat sexual harassment within the company.
Previously, the EHRC had entered into a legal agreement with McDonald’s in 2023 to address concerns about the handling of staff complaints regarding sexual harassment in UK branches. Originally set to conclude in 2025, the agreement has now been reinforced and extended for at least another year.
In response to non-compliance warnings from the EHRC in March, McDonald’s has committed to enhanced measures, with the EHRC recognizing the company’s progress in addressing the issues.
Earlier this year, over 750 individuals who worked at McDonald’s while under 19 years old engaged legal representation to address discrimination, harassment, and other issues at more than 450 McDonald’s locations in the UK.
Kiran Daurka, an employment law partner at Leigh Day, emphasized the need for McDonald’s to take responsibility and implement substantive changes to protect its young workforce, implying that the EHRC’s actions signal ongoing concerns about the company’s practices.
Baroness Kishwer Falkner, EHRC’s chairwoman, highlighted the revised agreement with McDonald’s to address sexual harassment issues more effectively and specifically tailored to the company’s operations.
Key provisions of the new agreement include the implementation of a safeguarding plan to protect vulnerable employees, external investigations of complaints against managers, and expanded training for managers and franchisees on various workplace issues.
As one of the largest employers in the UK, McDonald’s employs over 170,000 individuals across 1,450 restaurants, with an average employee age of 20.
This legal action follows previous reports of workplace misconduct at McDonald’s, prompting the company to engage consultants to assess its operations.
McDonald’s responded by highlighting their ongoing efforts, in collaboration with franchisees, to maintain a safe work environment through various initiatives. The company expressed commitment to the EHRC agreement as a formal recognition of their progress and dedication to ensuring a positive workplace
