In a message to employees, CEO of McDonald’s Corporation Chris Kempczinski apologized for injudicious texts exchanged with Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot.  In thanking Mayor Lightfoot for visiting a McDonald’s location in Chicago following the unfortunate murder of a child in the drive-through area, he noted “parents failed these kids”. The injudicious wording in the text may have repercussions from franchisees and employees despite apologies.

Since his appointment as CEO, Kempczinski has worked hard to restore the image of McDonald’s Corporation in areas of ethics, the conduct of executives and reputation in communities of diversity.  Conflicts between franchisees and the Corporation have continued through his tenure and should be resolved given the current difficult labor situation.