Why is there a McDonald’s shortage? Where milkshakes and bottled drink have run out - and supply chain issue explained

McDonald’s is currently experiencing a shortage of milkshakes due to a supply chain issue, but what else has the fast-food chain run out of and what is causing the shortage?

Here’s what you need to know.

Why is there a McDonald’s shortage?

The fast-food chain is experiencing a shortage of milkshakes at its UK restaurants due to supply chain issues.

This has been caused by the continuing lack of HGV drivers, which has also recently affected other popular food chains in the UK.

The chain said low stock distribution has affected the availability of a small number of its products, including milkshakes.

Bottled drinks are also out of stock at 1,250 McDonald’s outlets across England, Scotland and Wales.

A number of industries have been impacted by the supply chain crisis, with Covid restrictions and a lack of EU workers due to post-Brexit immigration rules understood to be behind the problem.

A spokesperson for McDonald’s said: “Like most retailers, we are currently experiencing some supply chain issues, impacting the availability of a small number of products.

“Bottled drinks and milkshakes are temporarily unavailable in restaurants across England, Scotland and Wales.

“We apologise for any inconvenience, and thank our customers for their continued patience.”

Where else has experienced supply shortages?

Nando’s was forced to close some of its restaurants last week due to shortages, with KFC also recently experiencing food shortages.

Nando’s said its problem was due to staff shortages with its suppliers, with a Nando’s spokesperson explaining that “the UK food industry has been experiencing disruption across its supply chain in recent weeks due to staff shortages, and a number of our restaurants have been impacted.

KFC also recently warned customers that there may be food shortages in some of its restaurants due to weeks of "disruption".

Although the chain didn’t say what caused the disruption, it posted a message on its Twitter page to tell customers that they may find "some items aren’t available" and packaging "may look different".

KFC said: "The Colonel has just emerged from a long day at the fryers and wanted to share the following message.

"Just a heads up that across our country, there’s been some disruption over the last few weeks - so things may be a little different when you next visit us.

"You might find some items aren’t available or our packaging might look a little different to normal. We know it’s not ideal, but we’re working hard to keep things running smoothly.

"In the meantime, please be patient with our incredible teams… they’re doing a brilliant job despite the disruption. We can’t wait to see you soon for your next fried chicken fix."