McDonald's tests drive-thru focused model in Los Angeles

McDonald's is testing a new concept in the U.S. that focuses on drive-thru and digital orders. The fast-food chain recently opened its first "On the Go" restaurant in Los Angeles. This new design features a dedicated window for mobile orders and lockers for delivery, which allow customers to pick up their food without interacting with staff. The lockers are not common in the U.S., but other countries have used them. A customer expressed support for this change, saying they liked the lockers. McDonald's aims to improve the speed and efficiency of their service through this approach. Many other fast-food chains, like Starbucks and Taco Bell, are also exploring similar models. They want to make it easier for customers to grab their food quickly. McDonald's noted that 70% of its restaurants globally have drive-thru services, and the company aims to grow this area of their business. At the moment, this dining room-less concept is only an experiment. Previously, McDonald's tried something similar in Fort Worth, Texas, in 2022. While global sales increased slightly last year, the company's president emphasized the importance of delivering value and innovation. The main question now is whether customers prefer the convenience of drive-thru or still enjoy dining inside the restaurant.