McDonald's cracks down on workplace violence, harassment and discrimination

McDonald's Corporation has announced a new set of global brand standards aimed at furthering a culture of physical and psychological safety for employees and customers through the prevention of violence, harassment and discrimination.

All 39,000 McDonald's restaurants, both company-owned and franchisee locations, in more than 100 countries including the UK will be required to adhere to these standards. Implementation will be supported by a policies, tools, training and reporting mechanisms.

The new brand standards will prioritise actions in four areas: harassment, discrimination and retaliation prevention; workplace violence prevention; restaurant employee feedback; and health and safety. These standards were informed by a cross-functional global team, reviews of global market practices and perspectives from across the company.

Beginning in January 2022, restaurants will be assessed and held accountable in accordance with the applicable market business evaluation processes.

McDonald's president and chief executive Chris Kempczinski said: "There are no short cuts to ensuring that people feel safe, respected and included at a McDonald's restaurant. This work starts by taking big, intentional moves. Our new global brand standards reinforce our commitment to living our values such that at every interaction, everyone is welcome, comfortable and safe."

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