McDonald’s has issued an apology over its staff refusing firefighters free drinks in York, United Kingdom, on Oct. 13.
The firefighters had been tackling a blaze at a branch of discount store B&M in Clifton Moor retail park.
They were refused and it was said that two members of the public paid for their drinks instead.
The Facebook post said that a lady “overheard McDonald’s decline to provide teas and coffees for the firefighters and bought around 16 teas/coffees herself.”
McDonald’s has apologized for the incident and offered to reimburse the costs.
“On this occasion, we would like to apologize to the firefighters who bravely tackled last night’s fire. They should have been provided with free refreshments on the night as a small recognition for their efforts.”
“McDonald’s will of course be happy to reimburse the member of public involved and we will be in touch directly with our local fire & rescue service.”
Steve Brown, whose Facebook account indicates he is a crew manager at North Yorkshire Fire Service, wrote, “I was one of the firefighters their last night, thank you to the lady and young man who brought us the teas and coffees, really appreciated.”
Another firefighter, Phil Lee, wrote on Facebook, “I also attended last night’s fire and would like to thank the lady and the young man who brought the teas and coffees. Couldn’t of come at a better time. Many thanks from all the lads.”
The blaze at Clifton Moor retail park was brought under control. The store has been rendered a “burnt-out shell” from the fire, according to BBC reporter Phil Bodmer.
