McDonald’s UK is to create at least 2500 new jobs this year, taking its UK workforce to 93,500 by the end of 2013. The new jobs build on 3500 jobs that McDonald’s created in 2012 – 1000 more than estimated – of which 70% were taken by people under the age of 21.
A major UK employer, McDonald’s has added more than 20,000 people to its workforce during the last five years as a result of its sustained business growth and long-term investment in recruitment and training. The company’s growth has been driven by investment in its restaurants and technology, new restaurants and extended opening hours and menu choice and innovation.
The announcement is welcomed by the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, Vince Cable, who recently visited a McDonald’s restaurant to meet employees – many of whom are completing nationally-recognised qualifications such as apprenticeships while they work. These qualifications will help them progress in their careers and boost their long-term employability at McDonald’s and beyond.
Vince Cable says: “A highly-skilled workforce is an important part of any growing business. That’s why I am pleased to see how McDonald’s is providing training and apprenticeships in a range of skills. McDonald’s is also to be applauded for helping adult employees get qualifications in maths and English. Poor literacy and numeracy skills can hold people back in the workplace, which is why the Government has doubled the funding for these core subjects.”
Jill McDonald, CEO at McDonald’s UK, adds: “These remain challenging economic conditions but I’m pleased that, together with our franchisees, our continued focus on serving quality, affordable food and giving our customers a great experience is enabling us to keep investing in our business and creating jobs.”