In a bold move set to bolster British business, McDonald’s has unveiled ambitious plans to open 200 new restaurants and create a striking 24,000 jobs across the UK and Ireland.
The fast-food chain currently operates 1,435 eateries in the UK, where franchises own approximately 80 percent of locations, employing over 170,000 individuals.
Today came with a hefty announcement from McDonald’s, signalling their most significant expansion since 2002, backed by a £1billion pledge to rejuvenate the nation’s high streets.
Alistair Macrow, Chief Executive of McDonald’s UK and Ireland, proudly reflected on the journey: “We have come a long way since we first opened our doors in Woolwich 50 years ago.
“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.”
When will new McDonald’s restaurants open?
McDonald’s will open 200 new restaurants by 2028, though exact dates and locations are yet to be revealed.
The global fast-food chain has hinted at where some of the new sites will open in “high foot fall areas”. McDonald’s revealed it is “always looking new sites” that fit the following criteria:
- Drive Thru/Drive To/ High footfall in-stores
- Out-of-town/edge-of-town roadside locations
- Adjacent to supermarkets, retail and leisure parks
- Arterial roads
- Minimum traffic flow 15,000 vehicles per day
- Minimum site area 0.3 acres
- Dedicated/shared car parking
The McDonald’s chief executive further emphasized the company’s focus and dedication to the future: “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.
“We’re proud of what we have delivered in the last 50 years and are committed to investing in new opportunities and supporting growth across the UK”, reports the Mirror.
Fans of the world-renowned franchise will soon be able to take part in the famous Monopoly challenge from Wednesday, September 4. Diners can collect stickers from their food packaging that represent train stations or colour-coordinated road names – much like the classic board game.
But not all menu items are worth the same amount, and this determines how you redeem a prize. For example, instant win food prizes can be redeemed at any McDonald’s branch by handing the token over at the counter when you order.
The top prizes last year included £100,000 in cash for four winners and 2,000 “gold cards”, which give you a free Maccies meal every week for a year.