McDonald’s Singapore: Lock up your phone

In this article (4)
In a bid to help families reconnect, McDonald’s Singapore has introduced a locker for mobile phones at its Marine Cove flagship.
Its new“Family Playdate” concept includes table service with the aim of promoting human interaction.
McDonald’s says a survey it ran shows that more than 90 per cent of parents and children use their mobile devices when they’re together, despite most parents wanting to be “more disciplined in staying away from digital distractions during family time”.
Rather than go hi-tech, the 100 clear lockers have physical keys, and staff members will remind customers to take their phones when they leave.
Staff members will also act as “guest experience leaders”, says the fast-food company. They will “engage with families”. When ordering at a self-service kiosk, customers can select the table-service option at no extra charge
A McDonald’s Singapore says the restaurant will gather feedback on the initiatives to decide whether or not to expand them to other outlets.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary goal of McDonald's Singapore's new "Family Playdate" concept?
What is the primary goal of McDonald's Singapore's new "Family Playdate" concept?
The main objective is to encourage families to reconnect by reducing mobile phone use during meals. The concept aims to promote human interaction through features like phone lockers and table service.
Q.How prevalent is mobile device usage among families according to McDonald's own research?
How prevalent is mobile device usage among families according to McDonald's own research?
A survey conducted by McDonald’s indicated that over 90 per cent of parents and children use their mobile devices when together. This happens despite many parents wishing to limit digital distractions during family time.
Q.Will this "Family Playdate" initiative be rolled out to other McDonald's locations in Singapore?
Will this "Family Playdate" initiative be rolled out to other McDonald's locations in Singapore?
McDonald’s Singapore will first gather feedback on these initiatives at the Marine Cove flagship restaurant. A decision on whether to expand them to other outlets will be made after reviewing this feedback.
Reader pulse
Is tech-free dining a winning strategy?
20,268 votes so far