1. Mcdonald’s is committed to conducting business ethically and in compliance with all applicable laws.
2. Mcdonald’s expects its employees to act in a manner consistent with this commitment.
3. Mcdonald’s prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Mcdonald’s is committed to providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.
4. Mcdonald’s expects its employees to treat one another with respect and dignity. Mcdonald’s does not tolerate any form of bullying, hazing, or other abusive conduct directed towards employees.
5. Mcdonald’s requires all of its employees to comply with applicable laws regarding conflicts of interest. Employees are expected to avoid any situations in which their personal interests could conflict with the interests of Mcdonald’s.
6. Mcdonald’s expects its employees to adhere to the highest standards of personal and professional integrity. Employees are expected to act honestly, ethically, and with integrity in all their dealings on behalf of Mcdonald’s.
7. Mcdonald’s is committed to protecting the confidentiality of non-public information belonging to Mcdonald’s or its employees, customers, suppliers, and business partners. Employees are expected to maintain the confidentiality of such information and not use or disclose it for personal gain or advantage.
8. Mcdonald’s expects its employees to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Employees who violate these laws or regulations may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
9. Mcdonald’s expects its employees to report any potential violations of this Code of Ethics for Employees or any other Mcdonald’s policy to a supervisor, manager, or the Ethics Hotline. Mcdonald’s will not tolerate retaliation against employees who report such potential violations in good faith.
This Code of Ethics for Employees sets forth McDonald’s general standards of conduct for all employees. It is not intended to be a complete statement of all policies applicable to McDonald’s employees, nor does it modify or replace any existing policy or condition of employment.
McDonald’s reserves the right to change this Code of Ethics for Employees at any time and will communicate any such changes to employees in a timely manner. Nothing in this Code of Ethics for Employees creates or implies any promise of continued employment. Any questions regarding this Code of Ethics for Employees should be directed to your supervisor, manager, or the Ethics Hotline.
The main problem in the case is McDonald’s’ unethical criticism in Europe, as we’ve learned and inferred from the situation. Food safety, ill-treatment of animals, exploitation of children, and rainforest destruction are some of the organizational ethical concerns addressed around McDonald’s throughout the case.
Firstly, one of the ethical issues which frequently happen in McDonald’s is about food health. Mcdonald’s offer cheap and fast food that many people love, however the quality and the healthy of their product have been doubted by many consumers. TheirReady-to-eat meals often high in fat, sugar, salt and calories which can lead to obesity, heart disease and other serious health problems.
Many parents also worry that their children might get addicted to McDonald’s Happy Meals because of the toys given inside every meal. In some developing countries, Mcdonald’s is often seen as a symbol of Western culture and capitalism, thus some people are against it.
Secondly, another ethical issue related to McDonald’s is the mistreatment of animals. Many animals are raised in cruel and inhumane conditions on factory farms, and then slaughtered for their meat. Mcdonald’s is one of the largest buyers of beef, pork, and chicken in the world, so their demand for these products contributes to the suffering of these animals.
Thirdly, McDonald’s has also been criticized for contributing to the exploitation of children. In many countries around the world, children work long hours for little pay in dangerous conditions to harvest the cocoa used in McDonald’s food products. These children are often forced to work by their families or by criminal gangs, and they frequently miss out on an education.
Finally, McDonald’s has also been accused of contributing to the destruction of rainforests. In order to produce the beef used in their burgers, McDonald’s suppliers clear large areas of rainforest in South America. This destroys the habitat of many animals, and contributes to climate change.
All of these ethical issues have led to criticism of McDonald’s from around the world. However, the company has taken some steps to address these concerns. For example, McDonald’s has committed to sourcing only cage-free eggs by 2025, and has changed its policy on buying beef from suppliers who destroy rainforests. The company has also created a McResource Line for employees to call if they are experiencing personal or financial problems.
Despite these efforts, McDonald’s still faces many challenges in addressing the ethical concerns raised about its business practices. Only time will tell if the company is truly committed to making changes that will benefit its employees, customers, and the environment.
“The firm is announcing good news in its social responsibility efforts regarding McDonald’s. Social responsibility isn’t a one-time event. We’ve always been active individuals who take action to improve things around us, and we’ll continue to be so as long as we exist. McDonald’s must act responsibly on vital issues such as communities, workplaces, supply chains, and the environment,” said Bob Langert, Senior Director of Social Responsibility at the corporation.
Here is a brief look at how those efforts are paying off: In the communities we serve, McDonald’s and its franchisees support local charities and organizations that make a difference in the lives of children and families. Our global network of McFamily restaurants has donated more than $100 million to Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®) since 2004. Mc Donald’s and its franchisees also support local organizations such as Junior Achievement, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and many others.
McDonald’s employees around the world are proud to donate their time and energy to supporting their communities. Last year alone, Mc Volunteer crews gave more than 1.2 million hours to help improve schools, build homes, plant trees and support a variety of other local causes.
The company is also working with key suppliers to promote sustainable sourcing practices and address environmental impacts throughout the supply chain. Together, we’re committed to reducing our greenhouse gas emissions, water use, waste generated and packaging materials – all part of our ongoing journey to run a better McDonald’s.
McDonald’s has made strong progress in these areas and will continue find ways to further reduce its impact on the environment as the company grows.
Looking ahead, McDonald’s remains focused on being a force for good in society – whether that means helping people access affordable, nutritious food or supporting employees and their families through our Archways to Opportunity education program. It’s all part of McDonald’s continuing journey to use our scale for good.