McDonald’s reveals plans to open over 200 new branches across the UK

MCDONALD’S will open more than 200 restaurants across the UK and Ireland over the next four years, in a boost for lovers of the fast-food chain.

It marks the largest expansion programme for more than 20 years by the Big Mac maker.

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The popular dining spot has received a £1billion investment by the chain and its franchisees, which will help fuel the expansion.

McDonald’s UK business currently has 1,435 restaurants across the UK, with around four-fifths owned and operated by franchisees.

Customers can expect to see more chains open on their local high street as part of the move.

These type of locations do not usually feature a dirve thru and can be found in your local town or shopping centre.

The home of the Golden Arches also said it would ramp up trials of its smaller format sites known as ‘drive to’ destinations.

These type of sites do not have lanes for car orders and have less seating, and some will be more focused on delivery and take away options.

This is not the first time customers have heard of McDonald’s increasing their footprint in the UK.

The firm has revealed a target of building 10,000 more restaurants globally by 2027.

The Sun has contacted McDonald’s for the list of locations and while they could not confirm the full list, they did say sites would be “opening restaurants all across the UK”.

Alistair Macrow, chief executive officer of McDonald’s UK&I, said: “We have come a long way since we first opened our doors in Woolwich 50 years ago.

“We have become an important part of communities across the UK and I’m delighted that in this milestone year we are able to demonstrate our ongoing commitment to growth, and announce the creation of new jobs across the country as we plan to open over 200 new restaurants over the next four years.

“It’s a moment to celebrate and also to look ahead to what’s next.

“Whether that’s continuing to provide the best value for our customers, investing in our restaurants, supporting our suppliers across the UK or launching new initiatives for young people where our communities need them most.”

McDonald’s opened in the UK in 1974 and has been a popular location for Brits since.

London has the biggest population of McDonald’s in the UK with some 200 sites.

Meanwhile, Rutland in the East Midlands has the least, with just one site which opened in 2020.

How to save money at McDonald’s

You might not think it, but you can end up being charged more solely based on the McDonald’s restaurant you choose.

Research by The Sun found a Big Mac meal can be up to 30p cheaper at restaurants just two miles apart from each other.

Meanwhile, you can pick up a Big Mac and fries for just £2.99 by filling in a feedback survey found on any old McDonald’s receipt.

The receipt should come with a 12-digit code which you can enter into the Food for Thought website alongside your submitted survey.

You’ll then receive a five-digit code which is your voucher for the £2.99 offer.

Make sure you check out all the various apps and platforms if you’re ordering McDonald’s to your home too.

Our research found some can charge up to £1.20 more than others.

How do I find my nearest McDonald’s?

If you’re planning on taking a trip to McDonald’s, you’ll want to know where your nearest branch is.

The chain has a restaurant locator tool on its website you can use to find your nearest one – and check what time it opens.

Bear in mind that McDonald’s serves breakfast every day until 11am.

After that, the menu switches to the normal menu serving meals such as burgers, chicken nuggets and more.