McDonald’s is to open more than 200 restaurants across Ireland and the UK over the next four years in a plan set to create around 24,000 jobs.
It is the largest expansion programme by the fast-food chain for more than 20 years.
The plan is driven by a £1bn (€1.2bn) investment by the company and its franchisees.
McDonald’s said the expansion will involve a renewed focus on opening restaurants and test new restaurant formats, including trials for additional smaller sites.
The company currently has more than 1,500 existing restaurants across Ireland and the UK.
The Irish arm of McDonald’s recorded its most profitable year in 2022 as pre-tax profits surged by 157% to €43.16m.
The new Ireland and UK openings come after the chain revealed a target of building 10,000 more restaurants globally by 2027.
Chief Executive Officer of McDonald’s UK and Ireland Alistair Macrow 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 … or launching new initiatives for young people where our communities need them most.”