Is Ronald McDonald the problem at McDonald's?

William Atkins
Friday, 20 May 2011 22:47

Opinion and Analysis

Many major media sources are tackling the high-profile question of whether the McDonald's mascot, Ronald McDonald, should stop advertising Happy Meals and other such Mcfoods and McToys to children. McDonald's CEO says Ronald will continue at his job.

 

So, is Ronald McDonald the problem at McDonald's? He is claimed by many health-care professionals and consumer groups to be advertising unhealthy food to children, along with toys that further entice them to eat at the fast-food giant.

These people want Ronald to step down and head to the McRetirement Home.

At the latest stockholder's meeting, this question was in the forefront of the conversation: whether Ronald McDonald should advertise Happy Meals, toys, and other such Mcfare to children.

In fact, The Wall Street Journal was one of the major media organizations that covered this hard-hitting story in their May 20, 2011 article 'No Pink Slip for Ronald McDonald.'

The article quotes McDonald's chief executive officer, Jim Skinner, who is Ronald's boss. Mr. Skinner emphatically stated, "Ronald McDonald is going nowhere."

Skinner added, "Ronald McDonald is an ambassador for McDonald's, and he is an ambassador for good. He does not advertise unhealthy food to children."

Well, now, come on guys, whether Ronald advertises healthy or unhealthy food to children, Mr. McDonald is not forcing any foods into our children's mouths and down their throats.

Ronald is only advertising the idea of buying Happy Meals and other such food and toys at McDonald's.

Mr. McDonald is asking you to do this through the a method that business calls advertising. He is not forcing you to do anything.

Just to remind everyone, the definition of advertising is the public promotion of a product, service, or event in order to increase interest in it. Such action of trying to attract attention is called an advertisement.

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