Barefoot marathoner kicked out of UK McDonald's, customers distressed by his appearance
The incident occurred in the city of Bexhill in the United Kingdom. James Graham was ousted from McDonald's after customers noted his lack of footwear. He was shown the door soon after placing his order.
Jan 11, 2024 | updated: 2:02 PM EST, January 12, 2024
Graham leads an unconventional lifestyle. His day-to-day involves walking around barefoot. He has completed 20 marathons, and yes, all of them were completed barefooted. As "The Mirror" reported, Graham had no sooner taken a seat to enjoy his meal when he was told to leave.
I was just minding my own business. I had just sat down, waiting for table service, when a crew member said I couldn't be there without shoes. - Graham recollects.
His Outfit Was Considered Disturbing: Forced to Leave McDonald's as His Appearance "Scared Customers"
Graham was puzzled by the request from the McDonald's staff member. On inquiry as to why he was being told to leave, he was told, "No shoes, no shirt, no service".
Then, I reminded her that this is an antiquated phrase from the hippie era in the USA, which used to restrict people's access to many places - the barefoot client elucidates.
James Graham stated that the unpleasant incident seemed "somewhat absurd". He pointed out that he was sitting next to a playground overflowing with barefoot children. Seeking an explanation, he even reached out to McDonald's headquarters.
It's odd to make such impulsive decisions when I'm not hurting anyone.
A spokesperson for McDonald's commented on the incident. The statement clarified that McDonald's strives to create a welcoming environment for all its customers.
The Bexhill team informed the customer that for his own safety and the comfort of our other guests, we request all customers to wear shoes in the restaurant - the spokesperson was quoted as saying in "The Mirror".
