​McDonald’s CEO Reveals 29 Employees Fired Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

McDonald’s UK has come under intense scrutiny following revelations of sexual harassment and other workplace misconduct across its outlets. Alistair Macrow, the company’s UK chief executive, disclosed to MPs on the Business and Trade Select Committee that 29 employees were dismissed over the past year due to allegations of sexual harassment. A total of 75 complaints were filed, resulting in disciplinary action in 47 cases.

The allegations, described by Macrow as “abhorrent and unacceptable,” come amid broader accusations of workplace abuse, including discrimination, homophobia, racism, and ableism. Over 700 employees aged 19 or younger have joined legal action against the fast-food chain, which could lead to compensation if successful.

Law firm Leigh Day reported that these claims implicate over 450 McDonald’s 1,563 restaurants in the UK and Ireland. Meanwhile, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has indicated it may take stronger action after receiving 300 reports of harassment from McDonald’s staff.

Dirk Tussing from Chicago IL, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A Pattern of Allegations

The scrutiny of McDonald’s is not new. A BBC investigation in 2023 first highlighted widespread allegations of harassment, sexual assault, racism, and bullying. In response, McDonald’s signed a legally binding agreement with the EHRC to enhance workplace protections. However, recent testimonies suggest ongoing concerns.

Liam Byrne, chair of the Business and Trade Committee, did not hold back during the hearing, characterising the situation as “a predator’s paradise.” Byrne’s remarks underscore the broader concern about the adequacy of McDonald’s response to these allegations.

Macrow defended the company’s actions, stating, “The type of allegations described are not widespread…they are isolated incidents that must be driven out of our business.” He emphasised the company’s commitment to fostering a secure and respectful workplace, adding that the new safeguarding measures are beginning to show results.

Zero-hours Contracts Under Fire

Another contentious issue was McDonald’s widespread use of zero-hours contracts, which cover around 90% of its UK workforce. Critics argue that such contracts can create a power imbalance, leaving employees vulnerable to exploitation. Macrow denied this, stating that team members can switch to guaranteed hours contracts. However, employee testimonies reveal a different picture, with some workers claiming they were not offered this choice.

While Macrow asserted that flexible contracts are popular among younger workers, the debate around workplace power dynamics remains unresolved. Critics argue that insecure hours may exacerbate vulnerability, particularly in workplaces grappling with harassment allegations.

Phillip Pessar, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Franchises and Accountability

One point of contention is the division of responsibility between McDonald’s corporate structure and its franchises. Macrow clarified that while McDonald’s holds its franchisees to strict operational standards, legal accountability for staff welfare lies with individual franchise owners. Over the past five years, McDonald’s has terminated agreements with 15 franchisees for failing to meet people management standards.

Macrow maintained that the problem was not more prevalent in franchise operations, stating, “We don’t see any pattern that suggests that poor behaviour is driven by managers at all.” However, he acknowledged the need for continuous improvement and vigilance.

Looking Ahead

Despite implementing a new safeguarding framework, McDonald’s faces the challenge of regaining trust. The company has introduced a dedicated team to address complaints, new reporting channels, and anonymous surveys to measure staff confidence. A recent study shows that 92% of employees feel comfortable speaking up, and 93% believe management will act on their concerns.

However, as Macrow conceded, eradicating harassment is an ongoing battle. “I can’t guarantee a time when no allegations will be raised,” he told MPs. “If nobody were speaking up, I’d be concerned that something was stopping people.”

The EHRC, meanwhile, continues to monitor the situation, suggesting further intervention may be necessary. For McDonald’s, the coming months will prove whether its “extensive work” can lead to safer workplaces or if more profound systemic changes are needed.