​McDonald's £1 Billion Investment to Create 24,000 Jobs in the UK and Ireland

McDonald's has unveiled ambitious plans to significantly expand its presence in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, committing to a £1 billion investment to create over 24,000 new jobs within the next four years. This expansion marks the company's most significant growth initiative since 2002, signalling robust confidence in the future of high streets across the region.

The global fast-food giant, which already operates 1,435 outlets across the UK and employs over 171,000 people, will open more than 200 new restaurants. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance its footprint in urban centres, with a renewed emphasis on high-street locations. McDonald's aims to support the evolving landscapes of towns and cities, addressing these areas' challenges while contributing to local economies.

Alistair Macrow, the Chief Executive of McDonald's UK & Ireland, highlighted the significance of this expansion during the company's 50th anniversary celebrations in the UK. He stated, "We have come a long way since we opened our doors in Woolwich 50 years ago. We have become an important part of communities across the UK. I'm delighted that, in this milestone year, we can demonstrate our ongoing commitment to growth and announce the creation of new jobs."

The new investment builds on the company's substantial financial contributions in recent years. Between 2018 and 2023, McDonald's invested £618 million in new restaurants and upgrades to improve customer experience. The company has also significantly contributed to the UK economy, with nearly £95 billion of gross value added (GVA) since it first entered the market in 1974. In 2023 alone, McDonald's spent over £2 billion with UK-based suppliers and farmers, underscoring its deep ties to local communities.

This expansion also includes testing new restaurant formats, including smaller and more innovative designs, ensuring that the new locations meet the specific needs of each community. The company is focused on growth, supporting successful high streets, and maintaining its position as the largest private employer of young people in Britain.

However, this ambitious plan comes at a time of mixed global performance for the company. McDonald's recently reported a 1% decline in same-store sales worldwide during the second quarter, driven by reduced customer numbers in the United States and challenges in markets like China and the Middle East. Despite these challenges, McDonald's remains committed to maintaining its value leadership and adapting to changing market conditions.

As McDonald's looks to the future, its latest expansion efforts reflect a celebration of its past successes and a strategic investment in long-term growth. The company's commitment to opening new restaurants, creating jobs, and supporting local economies demonstrates its ongoing role as a key player in the UK's economic landscape.