McDonald's has introduced a small in-restaurant change in one branch, in a bid to prevent groups of rival yobs clashing with one another.
And while the tactic has been dubbed odd, it's hoped that the small change is effective.
One branch of the fast-food giant in Wrexham has started blasting Beethoven in a bid to calm tensions, while the outlet also turns off its Wi-Fi for customers.
Read more: I tried Aldi's new takes on the Sausage McMuffin and a surprise contender took the trophy
Birmingham Live reports that it comes after a clash between 20 yobs at a branch of the fast food giant in Wales. As such, McDonald's has introduced classical music from 5pm at the restaurant.
The branch affected is a 24-hour fast food restaurant, which will also see Wi-Fi turned off at times during the evening. Police Inspector Luke Hughes told the Sun: “Unless we have some local and unruly Beethoven enthusiasts, it should discourage some issues.”
McDonald's also previously said: "We have tested the effects of classical music in the past and played it in some of our restaurants as it encourages more acceptable behaviour. Typically, classical music would be played from early evening onwards and, in some cases, on certain nights in a small number of restaurants.
It is hoped the classical repertoire will have a soothing effect on revellers.
One police officer previously said: "The idea is the yobs would disperse as it's not their scene," while a local council spokesperson added: "The classical music clearly differentiates between the nightclub atmosphere, that some customers have just left, and the more serene family restaurant that McDonald's aims to provide."
Atul Pathak, the franchise owner of the Shepherd’s Bush fast food branch in London, liaised with the local council and police after 71 reports of disorderly behaviour in 2017. Mr Pathak said it was felt that classical music 'would help to set a different and calmer tone'.
He added: “It is working really well and has been positively received by many customers, so much so that we are giving real consideration as to where else we might introduce it.”
Read next:
- Aldi shoppers rave about popular £6.99 SpecialBuy perfume - almost identical to £110 designer brand
Ex-McDonald's worker claims to know why McFlurry and ice cream machine 'never works'
St James' Park kicks off first Restaurant Week venture with Geordie tasting menu
Revolution Bars to close venues on Mondays and Tuesdays due to soaring energy bills
