McDonald’s risks employee ire by joining trend of virtual layoffs

A sign is posted in front of a McDonald’s restaurant on in San Pablo, California. The fast food chain restaurant is shuttering its US offices this week as the company prepares to restructure and inform employees about layoffs. — AFP

McDonald’s Corp is the latest company asking staff to work from home during layoffs, a practice that has sparked criticism from other companies’ employees and management experts.

The fast-food chain told corporate staff to work remotely Monday through Wednesday to provide confidentiality while it cuts hundreds of jobs, according to a person familiar with the company’s plans. The decision was made out of respect for those affected, said the person, who asked not to be identified discussing private information.