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Mcdonald Operator Quote by Ray Kroc

“One time a McDonald’s operator came to me with the idea he’d dreamed up to cut costs by producing a doughnut-shaped patty. His notion was to plug the hole with condiments, and cover it with a pickle so the customer wouldn’t notice the hole. I told him we wanted to feed our customers, not fleece…” quote by Ray Kroc
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““One time a McDonald’s operator came to me with the idea he’d dreamed up to cut costs by producing a doughnut-shaped patty. His notion was to plug the hole with condiments, and cover it with a pickle so the customer wouldn’t notice the hole. I told him we wanted to feed our customers, not fleece them, but I couldn’t suppress a chuckle at the outrageous con artistry of the idea; a real Chicago fast one. We””

Ray Kroc

About This Quote

Source Interview: Business anecdotes, Ray Kroc, 1970s

A fast‑food executive suggested a deceptive product design to cut costs, highlighting greed versus genuine customer care.

In simple terms: A manager tried to hide a hole in a burger with toppings to save money.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize honest value over cheap tricks.

Themes

ethics business customer trust innovation cost cutting

Mood

cautious critical reflective

Type

advice cautionary

When to use this quote

  • restaurant management
  • product design
  • cost reduction
  • customer service

Key Concepts

deception value proposition brand integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is short‑term profit worth long‑term trust loss?
  • How can companies innovate without compromising integrity?
A Different Perspective

Such shortcuts can damage brand reputation and long‑term loyalty.

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