An Aussie's 25-cent gesture completely confuses McDonald's employee — Find out why!

In a world where digital transactions are swiftly becoming the norm, it seems that the humble art of cash handling and basic arithmetic might be fading into obscurity. This was humorously highlighted in a recent incident at a McDonald's drive-thru, where an Australian mum's attempt at simplifying a transaction with a $5 note and a 25-cent coin left the cashier—and subsequently the manager—perplexed.


The mum's story, which she shared on the 'Meanwhile in Australia' social media page, has since gone viral, sparking a mixture of laughter, disbelief, and a touch of nostalgia among readers. The post has amassed nearly 10,000 likes and over 2,000 comments, igniting conversations about the current state of basic math skills among younger generations.


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A mum shared her experience with a McDonald's cashier at a drive-thru. Image Credit: Shutterstock/rzoze19


The transaction in question was a simple one: the customer's bill came to $4.25, and she handed over a $5 note along with a 25-cent coin. Her logic was straightforward—by providing the extra quarter, she expected to receive a single dollar coin in return, making for a neat and tidy exchange. However, the cashier was baffled by the gesture, responding with, 'You gave me too much money.' Despite the customer's explanation, the cashier called over the manager, who also seemed flummoxed and ultimately returned the 25-cent coin, giving back 75 cents in change instead.


The customer's concluding advice? 'Do not confuse the people at Maccas.'

This incident has not only amused and frustrated many but also raised questions about the current education system and whether it's adequately preparing young people for everyday tasks such as handling cash. Some commenters reminisced about their own experiences working in retail, where such transactions were commonplace and expected. Others defended the cashier, suggesting that the confusion could stem from a lack of experience with cash due to the increasing reliance on electronic payments.

Indeed, the shift towards a cashless society has its benefits, including convenience and security. However, it also means that fewer people are developing the skills to quickly and accurately handle physical currency. This can lead to awkward situations like the one at McDonald's, where the basic act of making change becomes a challenge.


The conversation has also touched on broader themes of generational differences in skill sets. While some lament the perceived decline in practical abilities like cash handling, others point out that each generation has its strengths and weaknesses, shaped by the environment and technology they grow up with.

At the Seniors Discount Club, we understand the importance of keeping traditional skills alive while also embracing the advantages of modern technology. It's essential to find a balance, ensuring that while we enjoy the conveniences of digital advancements, we don't lose the practical know-how that has served us well for so long.
Key Takeaways

  • An Australian mother shared a frustrating encounter at a McDonald's drive-thru when trying to simplify change for a $4.25 transaction with a $5 note and 25 cents.
  • The cashier and their manager were baffled by the customer's request to receive a single dollar coin in return, instead of the expected 75 cent change.
  • The incident sparked discussions about the current state of basic maths skills among younger generations, with many suggesting they are lacking in cash handling abilities.
  • While some criticised the younger generation's counting skills, others defended them by pointing out that less frequent use of cash could be a factor or that there might be other reasons for the confused response.
So, dear members, we'd love to hear your thoughts on this amusing yet thought-provoking tale. Have you encountered similar experiences where basic math skills were lacking? How do you feel about the move towards a cashless society? Share your stories and opinions in the comments below, and let's keep the conversation going!
 
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It's not only fast food businesses, how about doctors and pharmacists..... or maybe it's just the bloody government again!
I was prescribed a box of 8 pain patches (opioids), with one to be used every 3 days, by my GP almost 2 years ago. The medication is prescribed and delivered every 4 weeks (28 days).
Do they not realise that 28 days divided by 8 patches, every 3 days, is one short every month, not including some occasionally rubbing off in bed or slipping off from summer sweat?
In the first year, it was never a problem to get an extra box to see me through the next few months, even with other opioids, which I had used and given the correct amount initially.
Now they refuse!
The chemist blames the doctor and the doctor blames the government!
I know I'm not the only one having this problem!
 
I used to do that at Woolworths (overpay to get a precise dollar amount back) thinking I would be making it easy for the cashier;no way, I only do it for amusement now. However, I can still count out 16 ounces on four fingers and 14lbs (1 stone) on two and do multiples thereof on the other hand so there was some benefit from my Primary School education.
 
I wanted to round up my investment by transferring from my savings account to the term deposit account. Did I have trouble explaining to the YOUNG GIRL what my intentions were. She just couldn’t get it! Now I have 13c dangling off the amount. Can’t wait for the next maturing, giggle!
 
Years (1978) ago in Cairns, I was in the queue at the checkout and my order came to $5.50 and I had that in my hand in coin. I said to the girl (loudish) "If I gave you $6.50, you would give me a dollar in change, right?"
"Correct" she said.
I said "Ok, take that dollar with this $4.50 making the $5.50"
"Ok" she said, and for a moment thought about it and rang up $5.50 (pre electronic era) and I moved to the Packing area and waited. Every one in the queue was laughing. As she was about to ring up the next customer, she suddenly called out,
"HOLD ON!" and spun around and said to me, very red faced, "You owe me a dollar!"
She was leaning over the counter a bit as she said that, I paid her, and she did see the funny side.
After that I would always go to her aisle and she would say "Oh noooo not YOU again! You're not going to confuse me again I hope?"
 
I do this often, getting rid of small change in my wallet. Most times I get it handed back saying that I have paid too much. Trying to explain, the shop assistant becomes confused and has no idea and has to get the supervisor to help, even they become confused. Young people have no idea about cash and change these days. So frustrating. It is no wonder why they try to get us to use a card - they don't have to think.
 
I do this often, getting rid of small change in my wallet. Most times I get it handed back saying that I have paid too much. Trying to explain, the shop assistant becomes confused and has no idea and has to get the supervisor to help, even they become confused. Young people have no idea about cash and change these days. So frustrating. It is no wonder why they try to get us to use a card - they don't have to think.
Thinking is not in their job description.
 
I like to use cash, one, we pay cash for Tai Chi, and also small business`s have to charge a surcharge for Credit cards. Also, I have 2 money boxes. Silver goes into my Great Granddaughters, and gold into mine. We are heading to NZ for Christmas, for a Family time at my Son`s place. I will get NZ $ for both of us. I do this every year, so she has money for over the holidays. Saves asking Mum & Dad for spending money.
 

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