McDonald’s Japan Rations French Fries, Says Supply Chain Disrupted Due To Flood And Pandemic

“Import delays have occurred due to flood damage and the impact of the Corona disaster on the global distribution network,” the firm said in a statement explaining the reason for the delay.

Representation Image (File Photo/Getty Images)

New Delhi: While the Auto sector is in crisis due to a shortage of microchips used to make circuits, McDonald’s Japan is facing a different kind of chip shortage. However, it is not the semiconductor chip that is causing the problem.

McDonald’s Japan is rationing french fries as the supply chain of potatoes used by the fast-food chain to make french fries is disrupted due to delays in shipment. In order to deal with the shortage, the firm announced that their outlets in Japan will only sell small french fries until December 30. 

“Import delays have occurred due to flood damage and the impact of the Corona disaster on the global distribution network,” the firm said in a statement explaining the reason for the delay.

A new kind of chip shortage hits Japanese supply chains

McDonald's Japan is forced to ration fries as Covid-19 and floods in Canada squeeze potato imports and will only sell small-sized French fries for a week from Friday https://t.co/7XjXueSxzG pic.twitter.com/QXPJbJl0pz

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) December 22, 2021

The statement further explained how the firm is looking forward to dealing with the supply issue in the future. It said, “While it is difficult to procure raw materials in a stable manner, we have cooperated with importers and suppliers to proactively take alternative measures such as arranging airmail, and have continued to provide "McDonald's Potato".

“Customers will still be able to order Small-sized French Fries at all of our restaurants. To date, there have been no breaks in supply,” the company told BBC.

The disruption comes ahead of the festive season when the Christmas Holidays are near and the festival is celebrated in the country with huge enthusiasm. According to news agency AFP, Christmas is celebrated in Japan by serving US-based fast food Kentucky chicken which is heavily marketed around the festive season.