I think that it's just an excuse by the franchise owners; they are businessmen and are out to maximize profits. They don't provide the jobs because they feel charitable, instead they were waiting for the technology to improve to a point where they could replace humans with automation/robotics; just that the minimum wage issue timing gave them the lame excuse to make the switch.
It is not the responsibility of the franchise owners to provide jobs for everyone. If someone want a good job, then he should get quality education and the necessary skills. If automation / robots can reduce the prices, then I am supporting it. Banning the usage of technology, with lame excuses such as unemployment is retarded. McDonald's is not the only job provider in the United States. If you can't get a job with McDonalds, then try the USAF or the local supermarkets.