A McDonald’s branch in Newcastle, located on King Street, two hours north of Sydney, has introduced significant security upgrades to safeguard its employees from aggressive customers.
The fast-food outlet, notorious for its history of anti-social behavior, has installed a ceiling-to-counter plexiglass screen, leaving only a small opening for food to be served. This measure ensures staff remain fully protected behind the barrier.
The decision to install the protective screen follows a series of violent incidents at the 24-hour restaurant. One infamous episode in 2019 saw a dozen patrons engage in a chaotic brawl inside the eatery, hurling punches and thick shakes, while horrified families looked on.
Recent photos from inside the restaurant, shared on social media, highlight the grim state of its dining area, with tables littered with spilled drinks, empty food wrappers, and soggy fries. At one point, the only customers present were reportedly sleeping, seemingly recovering from a long night or too many burgers.
Public Reaction to the McDonald’s Security Measures
The King Street McDonald’s has drawn widespread attention online, with many sharing their experiences of the venue. One commenter sarcastically noted, “I went there at eight in the morning and left unscathed. Too early for the junkies and troublemakers.”
Another shared their surprise after revisiting the location: “I moved away from Newcastle for a while and decided to try King Street Maccas again. First thing I saw was police interviewing someone over a few quarter pounders.”
Some stories highlight the traumatic experiences of staff members. One individual recounted dating a former employee who described witnessing a fatal overdose inside the restaurant and another incident where a person was fatally stabbed.
Others expressed frustration over the poor condition of the venue, calling it “one of the worst Maccas” they’d ever visited, even during midday hours on a weekday.
Criticism of Customer Behavior
Beyond security concerns, social media users criticized the behavior of customers who left the restaurant in such disarray. “People today are so lazy. It only takes a few seconds to put rubbish in the bin,” one person wrote. Another added, “That level of disrespect is disgraceful. I’d love to find where these people live and treat their homes the same way.”
McDonald’s Official Response
In response to the backlash, a McDonald’s spokesperson emphasized their commitment to safety. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia, they said: “Ensuring our restaurants are safe, welcoming places for our people and customers is a top priority for McDonald’s. We regularly review and proactively implement new safety and security measures as needed, to ensure our restaurants remain spaces the community can enjoy.”
While the protective measures at the Newcastle branch may seem extreme, they reflect the challenges faced by staff and management in maintaining safety and order in one of the brand’s most problematic locations.
