McDonald's hires 375,000 workers to extend hours this summer

In the United States, McDonald's announced the extension of its operating hours at most locations starting this summer. The initiative is part of a larger hiring push where the company aims to hire up to 375,000 workers. This move follows an earlier decision to improve service and boost employment at its restaurants amid an anticipated increase in customer demand during the summer months. The extended hours will include keeping many restaurants open until midnight or later, though certain locations such as those in airports and shopping malls will be excluded from this change. The fast-food chain emphasizes the importance of satisfying customer cravings during late-night hours and asserts that most signature menu items will be available during these extended hours. However, individual franchisees will have the discretion to determine which items they offer. To promote these extended hours, McDonald's is celebrating by distributing virtual gift cards for free McCrispy Strips, along with merchandise giveaways at concerts in Los Angeles, New York City, and Detroit. In recent years, the company has been focusing on significant growth, aiming to increase the number of restaurants across the United States with a target of 50,000 new locations by 2027. This marks a considerable push to enhance its presence in the fast-food market and adapt to consumer demands. As the summer season approaches, the connection between increased restaurant hours and the recruitment of a large workforce reflects McDonald’s commitment to meeting customer needs. This hiring surge is one of the most ambitious efforts by McDonald's in years, showcasing the company's need to manage higher traffic volumes and enhance customer service experience during peak hours, particularly in the summer. Given the importance of seasonal revenue, the push for more employees along with extended hours indicates a strategic response to rising competition in the fast food industry and a shift to cater specifically to late-night customers. The overall aim is to ensure that each location can adequately service patrons, ultimately enhancing McDonald's reputation as a key player in the late-night dining segment.