The economic downturn in America has led to a number of initiatives from McDonald’s seeking to lure customers, but the strategies now seem to be frustrating some franchisees. US comparable sales for the company rose 4.3% in May as their promotions, which included providing a small menu of items at $1 and the use of giveaways, provided steady growth. Giveaways have so far included a two-day burrito giveaway and free coffee on Mondays in some areas. Franchisees dealing with rising costs,... ...Read more »

The current economic climate has been blamed for rising shoplifting figures. Theft from Australian stores has risen from 1.5% of revenue up to 2% since November according to the Australian Retail Association (ARA), costing retailers approximately $5.8 billion annually according to ARA CEO Richard Evans. With two rate rises since November, coupled with rising food, petrol and rental prices, the financial pressure on Australians has intensified and Evans views economic hardship as the key... ...Read more »