Analysis: McDonald’s brings more than £36m to Norfolk over three decades
McDonald's logo. Rui Vieira/PA Wire - Credit: PA
Fast food chain McDonald's has injected £36.3m into Norfolk's economy over the past 30 years, according to a study commissioned by the company.
The firm has created 1,800 jobs and opened 17 restaurants since launching its first Norfolk franchise in King's Lynn in 1984, the report by Development Economics has found.
Two key drivers for the business have been its restaurants in Norwich and Thetford, which have generated £7m and £6.6m respectively.
But the company's employment strategy has been scrutinised for its reliance on zero-hour contracts, which the company has used since entering the UK in 1974.
• Graphic: McDonald's impact on the Norfolk economy
It comes as the restaurant chain pledged to create 8,000 new jobs across the UK over the next three years, targeting first-time workers and recruits under the age of 25.
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Chancellor George Osborne said the plans aligned with the government's strategy to boost employment and bring greater economic security to families.
'A key part of our long term economic plan is creating jobs,' he said. 'That means creating the right conditions for successful companies to invest and expand their workforce. Over two million private sector jobs have been created since early 2010 and more people are in work than ever before.
'It is fantastic news that McDonald's is creating 8,000 new jobs here in the UK, especially with the majority going to first-time workers and under 25s. Every new person in work means a brighter future and more economic security for them and their family.'
The company published a report which showed that since the first McDonald's outlet was opened in this country, the firm has contributed more than £40bn to the economy.
British businesses benefit from annual supply chain spending of around £2bn thanks to McDonald's, said the report.
Chief executive Jill McDonald said: 'By taking a responsible and long-term approach we have been able to support jobs for local people and create opportunities for UK-based businesses.
'Our continued growth will enable us to further expand our workforce with 8,000 new jobs created over the next three years, and in many cases give thousands of young people a valuable opportunity to start building their careers.'
• Do you have a business story? Contact business writer Ben Woods on 01603 772426 or email ben.woods@archant.co.uk
