McDonald’s recently announced a shift in their approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), signaling a move towards a focus on “inclusion.” This change was outlined in a statement released on January 6th, where the company detailed its decision to step back from DEI initiatives such as representation goals, external surveys, and commitments within their supply chain.
The statement emphasized McDonald’s commitment to being a welcoming and inclusive brand for all, stating that “everyone is welcome under our Golden Arches.” This broad-based appeal is seen as a key factor in McDonald’s status as one of the world’s most beloved brands.
The shift in strategy was informed by work conducted in the previous year, including a comprehensive Civil Rights Audit and engagement with shareholders to understand their expectations. McDonald’s also took into account the evolving landscape of shareholder proposals, recognizing the increasing importance of DEI in shareholder conversations.
This shift in strategy is reflective of a larger trend in the corporate world, where companies are reevaluating their approach to DEI in response to external pressures and stakeholder expectations. Shareholders are playing an increasingly active role in shaping companies’ DEI policies, as seen in recent conflicts such as Lululemon’s stock drops linked to their DEI struggles.
As part of their new approach, McDonald’s announced changes to their DEI program, including a rebranding of their diversity team as the Global Inclusion Team. This name change is seen as more fitting and aligned with the team’s focus on creating an inclusive environment within the company.
The statement also highlighted McDonald’s commitment to their franchise model, emphasizing the importance of community outreach and empowerment in the company’s brand identity. McDonald’s leaders are expected to uphold the values of inclusivity within their teams and will be held accountable for fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
HR Dive, a publication related to Restaurant Dive, reached out to McDonald’s for additional comments on these changes to their inclusion policy. In response, McDonald’s directed them back to the official statement released to the public.
Overall, McDonald’s shift towards a focus on inclusion reflects a broader trend in the corporate world towards reevaluating and refining DEI strategies. By listening to shareholder expectations, conducting internal audits, and rebranding their diversity team, McDonald’s is taking proactive steps to create a more inclusive work environment for their employees and stakeholders.