McDonald’s to Invest €150 Million in Ireland, Opening 25 New Restaurants and Creating 1,750 Jobs

Fast-food giant McDonald’s has announced a significant €150 million investment in Ireland, paving the way for the opening of 25 new restaurants and the creation of 1,750 jobs over the next five years. The first of these new locations opened in New Ross, County Wexford, last month, with plans for four additional openings this year [1].

Expansion Plans and Investment Details

The investment signifies a renewed commitment to growth in the Irish market. McDonald’s currently operates 96 restaurants across Ireland, independently owned and operated by 18 Irish franchisees, employing over 7,000 people [4]. The company aims to reach 100 restaurants in Ireland coinciding with its 50th anniversary in the country next year.

The new restaurant in New Ross, a 400 square meter single-story drive-thru, represents a €3 million investment in the local area and has already created 70 jobs [2]. The facility includes 50 car parking spaces, bicycle parking, electric car chargers, and an outdoor seating area. It operates from 6 am to midnight, seven days a week [4].

Community and Economic Impact

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer, welcomed the announcement, highlighting McDonald’s long-standing role in supporting local employment, Irish farmers, and the agri-food sector [2]. McDonald’s Ireland contributes more than €414 million to the Irish economy annually [4].

Franchisee John Byrne, who also operates McDonald’s restaurants in Carlow, Blanchardstown and Wexford town, emphasized the company’s commitment to fostering community links and driving economic prosperity in County Wexford and the New Ross area [2]. All McDonald’s locations in Ireland serve 100% Irish beef, bacon, milk, water, and eggs, further supporting the local agri-food sector [4].

Future Outlook

McDonald’s plans to open an average of five new locations each year, with the goal of reaching 25 new restaurants within the five-year investment period. The company will also invest in refurbishing existing restaurants, as demonstrated by the recent €3 million refurbishment of its Cork Douglas restaurant [2].