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Identifying the Key Stakeholders Behind McDonald's Success

Updated: Sep 19, 2023

In any organisation, stakeholders play a vital role in shaping its direction and impact. At McDonald's, a renowned global fast-food chain, various stakeholders, both internal and external, contribute to its success and sustainability. In this article, we will delve into the roles and significance of internal stakeholders such as shareholders, employees, and managers, as well as external stakeholders including customers, suppliers, the local community, and pressure groups.


Learn more by watching the video and reading the blog post below:


McDonald’s Internal Stakeholders


Shareholders


Powering Growth and Direction Shareholders are individuals or entities who own shares or stocks in McDonald's. They invest their capital with the expectation of returns. Shareholders hold a vested interest in the company's financial performance and strategic direction. Through voting rights, they influence decision-making processes such as electing the board of directors and approving major initiatives. Maximising shareholder value is a primary goal for McDonald's, ensuring their investments are fruitful.


Employees


The Drive Behind Exceptional Service Employees form the backbone of McDonald's operations. From frontline staff to executives, employees contribute their skills, knowledge, and efforts towards achieving the organisation's goals. They are directly involved in the day-to-day operations, implementing strategies, and delivering high-quality products and services to customers. Engaged and satisfied employees are more likely to be productive, innovative, and loyal, ultimately benefiting McDonald's reputation and success.


Managers


Nurturing Operational Excellence Managers at McDonald's play a critical role in overseeing the organisation's operations and ensuring the achievement of goals. They provide guidance, set targets, allocate resources, and make decisions that impact overall performance. Effective managers foster a positive work environment, inspire their teams, and align individual efforts with organisational objectives. They act as a bridge between employees and top-level executives, facilitating smooth communication and coordination.



McDonald’s External Stakeholders


Customers


The Key Ingredient for Success Customers are at the heart of McDonald's business. They are the individuals who purchase and enjoy the products and services offered by the company. Understanding customer needs, preferences, and expectations is essential for developing successful marketing strategies, delivering exceptional dining experiences, and building long-term relationships. Satisfied customers become loyal patrons, driving repeat business and contributing to McDonald's growth and profitability.


Suppliers


Nurturing Reliable Partnerships Suppliers play a crucial role in McDonald's supply chain. They provide the necessary inputs, including raw materials, ingredients, and packaging, to ensure smooth operations. Maintaining strong relationships with reliable and quality-focused suppliers is vital for McDonald's to guarantee a consistent supply of ingredients and materials. Collaborative partnerships with suppliers contribute to cost efficiencies, timely deliveries, and improved product quality, all of which impact McDonald's success.


Local Community


A Recipe for Social Responsibility The local community where McDonald's operates is an important external stakeholder. McDonald's actions can directly impact the community in terms of employment opportunities, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Engaging with the local community, supporting social causes, and being a responsible corporate citizen can enhance McDonald's reputation and strengthen its relationship with stakeholders. Initiatives such as local employment, community sponsorships, and environmental sustainability programmes foster goodwill and contribute to the well-being of the local community.


Pressure Groups


Addressing Concerns and Driving Change Pressure groups are organisations or associations that aim to influence the policies, practices, or decisions of companies. At McDonald's, pressure groups often focus on issues such as environmental sustainability, animal welfare, and healthy eating. McDonald's recognises the importance of addressing these concerns and adopts sustainable sourcing practices, offers healthier menu options, and engages in transparent communication to address environmental, social, and ethical issues. By responding to the concerns raised by pressure groups, McDonald's protects its reputation, maintains public trust, and drives positive change.


In conclusion, stakeholders, whether internal or external, play pivotal roles in McDonald's journey towards success. Shareholders, employees, and managers drive growth, operational excellence, and strategic decision-making from within the company. Customers, suppliers, the local community, and pressure groups form essential connections with McDonald's externally. By understanding and effectively engaging with these stakeholders, McDonald's can continue to thrive, deliver exceptional experiences, and maintain its position as a global leader in the fast-food industry.

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