2 days ago
Australia set for fast food boost at McDonalds CEO announces '30 to 50' new stores nationwide
McDonald's Australia boss has revealed up to 50 new stores will open across the country in the next year.
CEO Joe Chiczewski made the announcement on Thursday morning, and said the main focus of the new locations will be to address 'restaurant gaps' across Australia.
'We're going to open more restaurants over the next 12 months,' he said.
'That is a key priority for our growth strategy. Not just the next 12 months, but over the next few years.'
Mr Chiczewski hinted Perth may see a large number of new restaurants.
'I would expect over the next 12 months that we would open somewhere between 30 and 50 restaurants,' he said.
'We're absolutely committed to continuing to invest in the Aussie community.'
There are currently 1,050 McDonald's stores across Australia.
It comes as McDonald's announced on Thursday the franchise would lock the prices of select popular menu items, in an effort to help Australians struggling with the cost of living.
Mr Chiczewski said items such as the McSmart meal would remain $7, and Loose Change Menu items would remain $4.
'My commitment to Australian customers is clear, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, you can count on us for great value at Macca's,' he said.
'We're kicking off a year of value with a 12-month price promise on our McSmart Meal and Loose Change Menu.
'Since launching the McSmart meal, we're selling 600,000 McSmart meals a week.'
Mr Chiczewski previously held the role of McDonald's Australia's chief restaurant officer.
The announcement follows the Fair Work Commission's ruling this week that McDonald's workers in South Australia are now able to negotiate better pay with their union and the franchise.
