More than 700 current and former McDonald’s employees have launched legal action against the fast-food giant, citing serious allegations of discrimination, homophobia, and sexual harassment in restaurants across the UK. The legal case, backed by law firm Leigh Day, implicates over 450 McDonald’s outlets and highlights systemic issues that the company is accused of failing to address.
This wave of complaints follows a 2023 BBC investigation, which revealed a troubling pattern of abuse within McDonald’s UK operations. The new claims emerged despite promises from the company to address these issues after the initial report. McDonald’s, the UK’s second-largest private-sector employer with over 168,000 staff at more than 1,400 restaurants, is now under renewed scrutiny.
The allegations will be a key topic during a parliamentary session today, where McDonald’s UK CEO, Alistair Macrow, is set to face MPs on the business and trade committee.
Legal Claims Detail Harrowing Allegations
The complaints span a wide range of disturbing behavior, including homophobic slurs, sexual harassment, and racist remarks. One 19-year-old worker reported enduring homophobic comments from managers and colleagues, saying, “I feel like I can’t speak to anyone about it. My manager told me to leave if I couldn’t handle it.”
Another former employee claimed he was bullied due to his learning disability and eye condition. He also witnessed racism and inappropriate conduct, including managers making physical advances toward staff. Other allegations include workers being pressured for sex and subjected to invasive personal questions.
Equality Watchdog Intensifies Oversight
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has confirmed receiving 300 harassment complaints linked to McDonald’s since the BBC’s initial investigation. The watchdog is revising its legal agreement with the company to reflect the seriousness of these ongoing issues.
The EHRC said, “We are actively working with McDonald’s to update our ongoing legal agreement in light of serious allegations raised by our work and the BBC investigation.”
McDonald’s Responds to Allegations
McDonald’s has defended its response to these issues, highlighting the measures it has implemented over the past year. A spokesperson stated, “Ensuring the safety of our 168,000 employees is our top priority. Any incident of misconduct is unacceptable and subject to thorough investigation.”
The company has introduced a range of safeguarding measures, including appointing a head of safeguarding, launching a whistleblowing platform called Red Flags, and setting up a dedicated investigations unit. McDonald’s also emphasized progress in employee confidence, citing survey results that show 92% of staff now feel comfortable speaking up, and 93% believe management will take action.
However, the fast-food giant acknowledged the need for continued vigilance. “We are committed to challenging and confronting any behavior that falls below our standards,” the spokesperson added.
