McDonaldization
McDonaldization can be referred to as the domination and growth of fast-food restaurants. McDonald has played a significant role in revolutionizing the fast-food business. After its success, it has helped grow and influence other smaller brands in the fast-food business, by paving the way and popularizing the fast-food business model. An example of a beneficiary is Chipotle, which received immense investment from McDonald, in 1998 with only 15 stores. By 2006, Chipotle had grown to 500 restaurants. As we analyze McDonaldization, we will look at the advantages and disadvantages.
McDonaldization has significantly helped in creating more employment opportunities. McDonald’s has played a big role in creating employment by franchising its brand. 57% of McDonald’s restaurants are franchises, which have also greatly helped it grow and expand easily. The International Franchise Association issued an analysis to show the immense growth of revenue generated by franchised businesses, confirming that McDonaldization has played a positive impact in this course. When people are employed, people are able to have purchasing power and, as a result improving the economy.
McDonaldization has greatly popularized the consumption of fast foods, which are not very healthy. Fast foods have very high levels of cholesterol and high sugar levels. This is why there is increased obesity and diseases that are a result of consuming fast foods. Young kids have also been exposed to fast foods and prefer it over the whole, healthy meals. The number of kids with obesity has greatly increased, putting them at a high risk of getting heart problems. Diabetes is also a concern caused by the consumption of high levels of sugar. Most of the foods with high sugar levels are fast foods such as soda cakes etc.
McDonaldization has helped bring creative impacts to society, but its side effects should also be looked into and addressed. This will help make it more sustainable and reach consumers who are health conscious.