The McDonald Boycott has become one of the most talked-about consumer protests in 2025. From June 24 to June 30, thousands of Americans are pledging to avoid McDonald’s in response to the company’s controversial decisions related to DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion), pricing, and labor practices.
This article explains the reasons behind the McDonald Boycott, who’s organizing it, what it means for the brand, and why it signals a major shift in consumer activism.
What Is the McDonald Boycott About?
The McDonald Boycott is being organized by a grassroots group called The People’s Union USA, which is also leading boycotts against major retailers like Amazon and Walmart. The boycott is part of their “Economic Blackout Tour,” aiming to hold powerful corporations accountable for social and economic policies.
The protest against McDonald’s is based on several key concerns:
1. DEI Rollback
In early 2025, McDonald’s quietly dropped its measurable DEI goals, ended its supplier diversity initiative, and renamed its internal diversity team. While McDonald’s insists these changes are “cosmetic,” activists view them as a retreat from racial and social equity efforts.
2. High Prices and Profits
According to data shared by U.S. senators, McDonald’s has raised menu prices well above inflation since 2020. Over that period, the company’s profits grew by 79%—from $4.8 billion to $8.5 billion. Critics say this is price gouging, especially during a time when families are struggling with rising costs.
3. Labor and Tax Controversies
The McDonald Boycott also highlights the company’s alleged history of opposing unionization, underpaying workers, and using loopholes to minimize tax contributions.
How Will the McDonald Boycott Affect the Company?
The McDonald Boycott comes at a time of declining U.S. sales. In the first quarter of 2025, the company reported a 3.5% drop in domestic revenue, with fewer customers visiting its stores. If the boycott leads to even a 10% decline in weekly traffic, analysts say it could lower McDonald’s quarterly earnings by at least 1%, just ahead of its Q2 financial report.
Similar consumer-led boycotts have already impacted brands like Target and Bud Light, showing that organized activism can affect both reputation and revenue.
What Is McDonald’s Saying?
McDonald’s has responded by denying many of the accusations:
- It claims local franchise owners set menu prices, not the corporate office.
- It says DEI programs are still active, just operating under different labels.
- The company continues to promote itself as committed to affordability and inclusion.
However, critics argue that these statements don’t address the deeper issues behind the boycott.
What Does the McDonald Boycott Mean for Consumers?
The McDonald Boycott is part of a larger movement where customers are demanding ethical behavior from big corporations. It’s not just about fast food—it’s about:
- Transparency
- Fair labor
- Real diversity efforts
- Accountability
This boycott shows that consumer trust matters more than ever, and people are willing to speak with their wallets.
What to Watch in the Coming Weeks
- Will the McDonald Boycott expand beyond this week?
- Could other brands be next in line for similar protests?
- Will McDonald’s reverse any of its DEI decisions?
- How will the boycott impact its Q2 earnings and investor confidence?
The Bigger Picture of the McDonald Boycott
The McDonald Boycott 2025 is a clear signal that consumers are paying attention. As corporate values come under the spotlight, companies like McDonald’s will have to respond not just with press releases, but with real change.
Whether or not the boycott creates long-term damage, it has already succeeded in sparking a national conversation about the role of ethics in business.
McDonald Boycott 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions
Why is McDonald’s being boycotted?
McDonald’s is being boycotted in 2025 due to rollback of DEI programs, alleged price gouging, labor suppression, and tax avoidance. Activist group The People’s Union USA is leading the boycott from June 24 to June 30, calling it part of their “Economic Blackout Tour.”
Why is KFC on the boycott list?
KFC has been mentioned in broader boycott discussions due to concerns over labor practices, food sourcing ethics, and its parent company Yum! Brands’ political and lobbying activity. It is not the main target of the 2025 McDonald Boycott but may be included in future actions.
What is the McDonald’s marketing scandal?
The McDonald’s marketing scandal refers to criticism over misleading pricing strategies, shrinkflation, and what critics call “performative” social campaigns that appear disconnected from real corporate practices. Activists argue that the company’s branding doesn’t match its internal actions.
Who owns McDonald’s?
McDonald’s Corporation is a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MCD). It is owned by a mix of institutional and individual investors, with major shareholders including Vanguard Group and BlackRock.
Why avoid McDonald’s?
People are avoiding McDonald’s as part of the 2025 boycott due to concerns over worker treatment, pricing ethics, reduced commitment to diversity, and environmental impact. Critics also cite a lack of transparency in corporate governance.
Is the Subway a boycott?
Subway is not currently part of the official McDonald Boycott 2025. However, it has previously faced criticism for ingredient quality, labor issues, and franchise disputes, prompting informal boycotts by some groups.
Is Burger King boycotted?
Burger King is not currently targeted in the 2025 boycott, but like other fast-food chains, it has been criticized for low wages, sustainability concerns, and inconsistent social messaging. It could be included in future campaigns depending on developments.
