: You don't have to swallow McDonald's line just because you're working for them.A very interesting point. It is exactly this conflict that made me realise I really needed to get out of McD's for my own well being. I believe that when you work for a comnpany, you must be committed and believe wholeheartedly in what they do, and how they do it. Over the years, more nagging doubts crept into my mind - to a point where I could not reconcile the company's philosophy and aggressive way of operating with my own moral stance.
For instance, the way McD's insidiously sells to children. Pester power is a popular tool. Even my own 3 year old is too aware of McD's for my liking. And she only ever went there 3 or 4 times. Every time we drive past a store, she starts singing "Old MacDonald had a farm..."
Also, the McLibel trial, which incidentally, is regarded within the company as a big mistake, must be their biggest PR fuck up to date. What a pointless exercise that was. The British love an underdog, and that is why the whole trial was regarded as the height of corporate arrogance by the British public. I could not believe the company had made such a stupendous mistake. They revealed themselves for what they are, a company that has lost touch with it's customers, and have a lot of repair work and damage limitation to do if they want to resume the same position in the consciousness of the British public. Personally, I think it is highly unlikely they will ever be able to get back to a pre-McLibel position. Shortly after the McLibel trial ended, Paul Preston visited my store. And he looked like shit, to put it bluntly. He retired soon after, not exactly on a high note. It really took it out of him, I think. I'm not trying to whip up sympathy here. I think that from McD's angle, the McLibel trial was not worth the hassle.
So, that is just a summary of my opinions on my former employers. There are many more, but I will have to drip feed you all, especially the IWW, who will be gagging for more, I suspect !
Till next time,
None.
