One multinational corporation’s pain is another multinational corporation’s gain.
The shutdown of McDonald’s restaurants islandwide over coronavirus fears appears to have given a big boost to two of its major competitors. Hours after the restaurant chain announced yesterday it was closing all outlets until May 4, Burger King and KFC reported a surge in demand.
Both chains took to social media to humble brag with statements advising customers that they would have to wait longer than usual for orders.
“Our kitchens are experiencing a high volume due to the recent increase in orders. Delivery and waiting times are expected to be longer. We seek your kind understanding and patience as our crew works hard to serve up your favourite BK meals,” Burger King’s statement at around 3pm read.
“With the recent increase in demand for Takeaway and Delivery, we seek your understanding and patience as our team continues to do our best in serving you the yummy fried chicken we all love,” KFC’s statement read.
According to McDonald’s yesterday, it accepted its last orders at 10:30am. It announced the decision to suspend operations entirely two days after it said Friday that it was suspending takeaway service. Six people, mostly employees, had tested positive for COVID-19.
On Sunday morning, Singaporean Big Mac fans scrambled to order amid the news. Photos posted online showed screenshots of McDonald’s delivery app stating it was no longer able to take orders.
“We are currently unable to take your order. We apologise for the inconvenience caused,” the notice read.
Some have taken to selling their meals as well as the signature garlic chili sauce on buy-and-sell app Carousell.
“Just Day 1 after McDonald’s islandwide temporary closure, here comes all the ‘funny’ sellers on Carousell … some are [screenshots] freshly produced on Carousell app from my mobile phone,” Facebook user Chan Mali Chan wrote.
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