China
"Watson argues that the introduction of a new kind of food and food service in China encouraged customers to take on better table manners. The exotic experience and atmosphere of McDonald's encouraged patrons to be more polite." -How Stuff Works
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"McDonalds corporation initially didn’t think the Chinese populous was wealthy enough to support their food chain. On their second market research trip they decided that children were the target market for their food. The “one child policy” has had an influence on the popularity of Western fast food. Parents who have only one child want that child to succeed at all costs; being “western” is a prerequisite for success...They may not be able to afford sending their children to the west for a college education, but they can afford taking them to McDonalds. It is common to see parents or grandparents watching their children eat at fast food restaurants. Parents want to please their children so when the child want to eat at McDonalds the parents comply. McDonalds has become the number one location for Chinese children’s birthday parties. (Wang, 2009) This fact is particularly surprising in that traditionally people in China did not celebrate birthdays. It appears that McDonalds has been successful in capturing the children’s market in China." -The McDonaldization of China |
McDonald's introduction in China was successful because it brought a vision of the Western world to the doorstep of the Chinese. Many flocked to eat in what they saw as a symbol of America, with many other countries following in their pursuit for a part of the success. Many Chinese learned valuable skills such as new etiquette, dining at tables, drive thrus, and new sanitary rules. The spread of cleanliness proved beneficial, but the effects of obesity began to flourish. Many Chinese connected high class to a well-balanced meal, and soon found it wasn't always the case. The problem of obesity in countries was soon addressed by Kroc and the corporation, leading to healthier menu options.