Hundreds of young current and former McDonald's employees in the UK have joined a legal action alleging widespread harassment, discrimination, and other abuses. The move comes as CEO Alistair Macrow faces questioning by MPs on Tuesday regarding employment rights, with a focus on zero-hour contracts.
The claims, filed through law firm Leigh Day, implicate over 450 McDonald's restaurants. Allegations range from discrimination and homophobia to racism, ableism, and inappropriate sexual advances by managers. Several young employees have detailed specific instances of harassment and hostile work environments.
One 19-year-old employee reported feeling unsafe and threatened by colleagues and managers, while another former worker described being propositioned for sex by a shift manager in exchange for extra shifts. Other workers described homophobic and racist remarks by managers, and feeling unable to report such incidents. The law firm also received claims of harassment, including instances where staff were repeatedly pestered for sex and asked about their sexual history by managers.
MPs on the Business and Trade Committee will question Macrow about the company's employment practices, scrutinizing whether zero-hour contracts contribute to power imbalances and potential abuses. Tesco, Temu, and Shein are also facing scrutiny.
McDonald's, one of Britain's largest employers, acknowledged receiving the claims and stated that it's actively addressing the issue. The company pointed to an anonymous employee survey which indicated a rise in comfort amongst employees speaking up. Furthermore, the company highlighted efforts to improve workplace safety and training.
However, the allegations raise serious concerns about working conditions for young employees. The legal action, and the upcoming parliamentary hearing, could significantly impact the fast-food giant and raise questions about its broader approach to employee well-being and workplace culture.
