Chick-fil-A faces further backlash after quietly opening in Scotland

by XPRESS, 29 October 2019

Controversial fast food chain, Chick-fil-A has opened their first Scottish outlet in MacDonald Aviemore Resort amidst Reading restaurant catastrophe. Last week, The Oracle Shopping Centre in Reading announced they would not be renewing Chick-fil-A’s rental agreement after the 6-month trial period due to LGBT protests. In the meantime, Chick-fil-A has quietly opened a new store in Aviemore which has been met with fresh talk of protests.

Highland LGBT Forum condemned the opening saying: “We are obviously really disappointed to see that the hotel [MacDonald Aviemore Resort] has allowed a business with an atrocious anti-LGBTQ track record to open in Aviemore, especially so soon after the public & media backlash from the Reading store opening (which hasn't had their 6 month lease renewed...congratulations Reading Pride!). We urge you to write to your local MSP's and the hotel too”.

Highland LGBT Forum have also voiced their concerns directly with MacDonald Hotels, but so far has had no direct response.

However, a spokesperson for the hotel said: “Chick-fil-A has already proved very popular with our guests and we are happy to be able to provide this quality food expense as an option.”

Chick-fil-A (expectantly) did not comment about the LGBT backlash but instead said: “Chick-fil-A is always evaluating potential new locations in the hope of serving customers great food and award-winning service.”

“The MacDoanld Aviemore Resort gives us an opportunity to learn and gain a stronger understanding of local consumer tastes and preferences as part of our ongoing exploration.”

The brand has suffered similar outrages in Canada and has been denied opening several outlets in America.

The brand has been known to donate millions of dollars per year to extreme anti-LGBT groups, as well as the CEO stating that he is against same-sex marriage. However, whenever questioned on the matters the chain states that any donations made were of the best intention.

Emma Richardson