SPRINGDALE, ARK. — Tyson Foods Inc. announced on July 22 that it would be joining McDonald’s Corp.’s Mutual Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (MCDEI) program. 

Tyson said it is committing to actions such as setting representation goals, conducting education and training, increasing diverse supplier spend and developing innovative programs and partnerships to increase diversity and inclusion across its business.

“At Tyson, our team members reflect every part of America today – diversity isn’t a concept at our company, it’s something we witness every day at every single one of our facilities,” said John R. Tyson, chief sustainability officer. “So, we are proud to have our commitment be reflected in McDonald’s Mutual Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.” 

McDonald’s will begin the complete diversity effort with US-based suppliers, before expanding globally, with the goal of full implementation across McDonald’s value chain by 2025. Additionally, McDonald’s USA is committing to increase purchases from diverse-owned suppliers by nearly 10% by 2025 representing approximately a quarter of its US spend.

“We are pleased that Tyson Foods has decided to join us on the next phase of our journey by joining the MCDEI,” said Marion Gross, McDonald’s senior vice president and chief supply chain officer. “McDonald’s and Tyson Foods have a long history together, and we look forward to maximizing our collective efforts to contribute to a more equitable future.”

Tyson joined the MCDEI commitment along with more than 20 other companies.