4) Corporate Welfare: US government payments to the McDonald’s workforce average nearly 1.2 billion a year, equal to 25% of the company’s annual profits. Because the average US McDonald’s employee makes barely above $7.25 per hour minimum wage, the company is a massive welfare beneficiary. McDonald’s claim wage “flexibility” provides part-time opportunities for young workers, yet the average age of its employees it almost 30. Its dismal wages contribute to a poverty rate of 16.7% among US fast food workers. Fortunately, McDonald’s is committed to the well-being of its workforce. In 2003, it was uncovered that the company’s McResource helpline instructed employees on how to apply for welfare.
