The ongoing joke about McDonald’s ice cream machines always being out of order has caught the attention of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The frequent breakdowns of these machines have raised concerns about why they fail so often and why repairs take so long. The FTC has launched an investigation to understand the extent of the issue.
A recent report by the Wall Street Journal revealed that the FTC has been reaching out to McDonald’s franchise owners across the country to gather information about the ice cream machine failures. It was discovered that the specific model of ice cream machine used by all McDonald’s outlets requires nightly self-cleaning operations using heat. These cleaning cycles frequently malfunction, and only technicians specialized in maintaining these machines can restore them. Franchise owners are not allowed to perform maintenance on the machines themselves.
The constant malfunctioning of these ice cream machines has become a significant problem for franchise owners, not just because of the operational disruptions but also due to the high costs involved. Bringing in certified technicians from the company that supplies the machines comes with a hefty annual expense, which franchise owners have to cover.
The FTC is investigating the ongoing issues with McDonald’s ice cream machines, which are a frequent source of frustration for customers.
Franchise owners incur substantial costs due to the frequent breakdowns of the machines. https://t.co/wEUArW69mh
— The Boston Globe (@BostonGlobe) September 2, 2021
While McDonald’s acknowledges the challenges faced by customers and franchise owners, they are reportedly exploring ways to address the issue, such as revising training procedures and increasing maintenance checks. Despite this, they have not confirmed the existence of a formal FTC investigation.
“Our commitment to upholding stringent standards for food quality and safety remains paramount. We collaborate with trusted partners to ensure reliable and safe solutions on a large scale,” stated McDonald’s in response to the situation.
