McDonald’s closes restaurants in Sri Lanka after dispute with partner (NYSE:MCD)

McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD) closed all 12 restaurants in Sri Lanka after the end of an agreement with its local operator, Reuters reported Sunday, citing a lawyer for the burger chain.

“The parent company decided to terminate the agreement with the franchisee due to standard issues,” Sanath Wijewardane, an attorney for McDonald’s (MCD), said to the news outlet. “They are not in business in the country. They may decide to return with a new franchisee.”

A spokesperson for local partner Abans declined to comment, Reuters reported. Sri Lankan media had reported that McDonald’s (MCD) took Abans to court over claims of poor hygiene.