【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. trial /ˈtraɪ əl/ (n.) – the act or process of testing the quality or effectiveness of something
Example: The trial for the new service is ongoing.
2. kiosk /ˈki ɒsk/ (n.) – a small booth or stall with a computer showing information
Example: You can place your order using the computer in the restaurant’s kiosk.
3. transact /trænˈzækt/ (v.) – to do or carry out a business with someone
Example: You have to transact directly with the bank teller.
4. opt /ɒpt/ (v.) – to choose one thing over the other
Example: I opted for a burger instead of a rice meal.
5. counter /ˈkaʊn tər/ (n.) – a table or flat surface in a restaurant where orders can be placed
Example: Customers should leave the counter right after placing their orders.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
McDonald’s has begun trying table service in the United Kingdom.
The trial started in a branch at Mottram, Greater Manchester, in August. With this service, customers can order their meals from staff members carrying tablet computers or via digital kiosks set up inside the fast food restaurant. After the customer places the order, a server will take the meal to his or her table.
This table service will not completely replace the traditional way of transacting orders, as customers can still opt to process their orders by the counter. The branch in Mottram is not the first branch to have this kind of service. McDonald’s branches in Australia, France, and Germany already offer table service.
Trying table service is one of the company’s ways of reinventing itself in times when its sales are struggling. While its UK sales are going strong, sales in Asia have been decreasing. One reason behind the decline in sales was a scandal in China in 2014. This scandal involved one of McDonald’s chicken suppliers that was said to use contaminated poultry products.
Aside from table service, McDonald’s is also trying out other measures to improve its sales. One of which is eliminating the use of chicken injected with antibiotics to ensure healthier options for customers. Another measure done by the company is introducing made-to-order burgers so that the meal will still taste good when it reaches the customer. The company also launched new burgers and highlighted how fresh the stores’ ingredients are.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Do you think table service in McDonald’s stores is a good idea? Why or why not?
· What else can McDonald’s do to increase its sales?
Discussion B
· What are the advantages and disadvantages of regularly eating fast food meals?
· What healthy food would you like fast food restaurants to serve?
