McDonald's to Acquire Its Franchise in Israel from Alonial

McDonald's and Alonial Limited announced today, Thursday, that McDonald's has decided to purchase its franchise in Israel for a duration of 30 years from Alonial Limited, the current owner, thereby restoring McDonald's ownership of 225 restaurants that employ over 5,000 workers. The American fast-food chain has faced boycotts and protests since Alonial announced it would donate free meals to the Israeli army shortly after Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7. Joe Simples, head of licensed international development at McDonald's, stated that "the company remains committed to the Israeli market and to ensuring a positive experience for employees and customers in the future." Omri Badan, CEO and owner of Alonial, noted that "after completing the transaction in the coming months, McDonald's will own Alonial's restaurants and operations while retaining its employees."