McDonald’s hungry for 200 new UK and Ireland stores
McDonald’s is planning to open 200 new restaurants in the UK and Ireland over the next four years as part of its biggest investment in over 20 years.
The fast food chain – which is set to invest £1bn into its store estate – is targeting more high street locations, The Times reports.
McDonald’s said it will be trialling a number of new store formats during the rollout, including smaller sites and “drive to” restaurants.
The chain – which currently operates over 1,450 restaurants in the UK and Ireland – has a long-term global target of opening 10,000 restaurants by 2027.
Alistair Macrow, chief executive officer of McDonald’s UK & Ireland, 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.”
Last year, Macrow said that “bloated planning rules” are wrecking the fast food chain’s expansion plans.