The fast food chain previously announced it would review staffing levels as part of an updated business strategy, which could lead to layoffs in some areas and expansion in others
McDonald’s, the world’s largest fast food chain, is temporarily closing its Chicago corporate offices as it prepares to cut staff, the Wall Street Journal first reported on Sunday.
The move, which affects some 2,000 employees, is part of a broader reorganization plan announced last November that aims to cut costs and improve efficiency. The company is expected to cut hundreds of jobs in the coming months in all areas of its business, from marketing to human resources.
“We are building a better and stronger McDonald’s for the future, and we are taking important steps to make our organization more efficient and dynamic,” the company said in a statement. McDonald’s has been hit hard by the pandemic, which has led to a drop in customer traffic at its restaurants around the world. The company has had to temporarily close many of its restaurants in the United States and elsewhere due to restrictions put in place to slow the spread of the virus.
Analysts say the McDonald’s shakeup is a necessary response to the challenges facing the fast food industry today. The chain has been struggling to keep up with changing consumer demands for healthier, more personalized options.
As the pandemic continues to affect the global economy, many companies have been forced to reorganize their operations to reduce costs and improve efficiency. McDonald’s isn’t the only fast food company that has had to cut staff in recent months, as other chains like Subway and Dunkin’ Donuts have also announced layoffs and store closures.