Unions Accuse McDonald’s of Failing to Protect Mostly Teenage Staff From Harassment
A coalition of trade unions has accused McDonald’s of breaching international labour standards by failing to adequately address sexual harassment in its UK restaurants and franchises.
The allegations follow a BBC investigation that uncovered what it described as a toxic workplace culture, where employees – some as young as 17 – reported being groped and harassed. Workers later told the broadcaster that such behaviour continued even after the company pledged reforms.
The unions have now taken their complaint to the UK National Contact Point (NCP), an independent government body that monitors adherence to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines. After an initial review, the NCP said the case warrants further examination and has offered to mediate between the unions and McDonald’s.
The complaint, submitted in February 2024 by five unions including the Bakers Union and the Trades Union Congress (TUC), alongside the Corporate Justice Coalition, claims there is ongoing evidence of “deeply rooted gender-based discrimination” within the fast-food chain. It describes repeated incidents of harassment, mainly involving teenage workers, and alleges managers failed to intervene.
The Department for Business and Trade stressed that accepting the complaint does not mean McDonald’s has been found guilty of wrongdoing. It also noted that participation in mediation is voluntary. If either party declines, the NCP may proceed with a further investigation.
Ian Hodson, president of the Bakers Union, described the allegations as “horrific” and said the BBC investigation helped expose widespread workplace abuse. He emphasised that workers’ voices must be heard and that everyone deserves to feel safe at work.
Luise Schroter, a senior policy officer at the Corporate Justice Coalition, said harassment at McDonald’s must stop, adding that workers and unions are central to addressing what she described as systemic problems.
Since the initial investigation, more than 160 people have reportedly contacted the BBC with further claims, while the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has recorded around 300 harassment complaints. More than 700 current and former junior employees are now pursuing legal action against the company.
Kiran Daurka, an employment partner at law firm Leigh Day, which represents some of the claimants, said workers accuse McDonald’s of failing to protect them from abuse.
In November, the equality watchdog said McDonald’s agreed to strengthen protections by introducing new sexual harassment training for managers. The company at the time said it welcomed the measures and believed they would build on progress already made.
Responding to the latest developments, a McDonald’s spokesperson said the company is aware of the NCP’s assessment and is engaging with the process.
“We are reviewing the information and considering next steps,” the spokesperson added.
