On a now viral TikTok, a McDonald’s customer said he had to “order through a kiosk” at an employee-less McDonald’s location.
TikTok user @jbarbeezy posted this video on December 24th. In it, she shoots what’s behind the counter in a McDonald’s store, noting that the kitchen is devoid of cashiers or employees. All you see is her automated drinks machine that completes your order.
“Guys, you won’t believe this. No one here. Had to order at a kiosk,” she says in the clip.
She also shows a sign that says “Sorry the cashier is currently unavailable”.
“I mean, no humans are working here, just machines. What’s going on?” she asks.
@jbarbeezy what! 👀 #McDonald’s #robotics #imshook #what #fyp #soda dispenser ♬ Sounds Like a Sales – TikTok For Business
McDonald’s unveiled its first fully automated store in Texas this week. CBS news. The restaurant chain says the move is part of a plan to create “new ways to serve.” [customers] Faster and easier than ever. ”
Jbarbeezy’s video has been viewed over 301,000 times as of December 27th. In the comments section, viewers were split on the new tech addition to McDonald’s operations.
“Can’t wait for this to be a success so all McDonald’s are like this,” wrote one user.
“I refuse to buy anything in that way,” pushed another.
Other users have suggested that the increase in automation at fast food restaurants is due to the demand for higher wages.
“Yeah, because there are workers who demand salaries, like people with college or trade degrees. commented one viewer.
“There was an inevitable conclusion to the constant demands for wage increases,” wrote another.
“Does this mean $22 an hour?” Third added.
The Daily Dot reached out to @jbarbeezy via direct message on Instagram and McDonald’s via email.
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*First published: December 27, 2022 at 6:57 PM CST
Rebecca Harding
Rebekah Harding is a freelance reporter for the Daily Dot. She has digital and printed bylines in Men’s Health, Cosmopolitan, SheKnows and more.