McDonald’s Implements Required Global Standards for Safe, Respectful and Inclusive Workplaces

McDonald’s Implements Required Global Standards for Safe, Respectful and Inclusive Workplaces

[Chicago, April 14, 2021]– McDonald’s Corporation today announced a significant step forward in its commitment to fostering safe, respectful and inclusive workplaces with the implementation of new Global Brand Standards. These standards are 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 will be required to adhere to these standards. Implementation will be supported by a suite of policies, tools, trainings and reporting mechanisms.

“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,” said McDonald’s President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Kempczinski. “Our new Global Brand Standards reinforce our commitment to living our values such that at every interaction, everyone is welcome, comfortable and safe.”

The new Brand Standards prioritize 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 McDonald’s System.

“As employers, we have an important role to play in setting the bar high for a values-led, safe and inclusive working environment,” said Mark Salebra, Chairman of the U.S. National Franchisee Leadership Alliance (NFLA) and franchise owner. “Our franchise community is committed to adhering to the standards and model what it means to support our employees in doing what we do best—serving our customers and communities with integrity and respect.”

Beginning in January 2022, restaurants will be assessed and held accountable in accordance with the applicable McDonald’s market’s business evaluation processes. This timeline allows each market to implement the Brand Standards in the way that is most effective.

The new Global Brand Standards will help identify and scale best practices across the industry by setting a clear path for action and accountability.

“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.”

“Every company has a responsibility to create a safe environment for its employees and everyone who walks through its doors,” said Clara Kim, vice president of consulting services, RAINN, the largest anti-sexual violence organization in the United States. “We commend McDonald’s for setting these standards to help ensure that everyone working at a McDonald’s restaurant is provided with a safe and respectful workplace and that all restaurants are held accountable for this important work.”

The company will continue to work in partnership with independent and third-party experts in the U.S. and globally to provide expertise, training and tools that support the implementation of the standards for franchisees.  

About McDonald's

McDonald's is the world's leading global foodservice retailer with over 39,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 93% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business owners.