Mike Penning, Member of Parliament for Hemel Hempstead, visited McDonald’s in Apsley to meet franchisee Alan Butchers, business manager Kate Baciur and staff.

Mike Penning has paid tribute to their hard work and the benefit to the local community of franchises such as McDonald’s.

Alan Butchers became a franchisee in December 2012 when he took over the Apsley McDonald’s restaurant. Due to his hard work and commitment to the local area, his business contributes £1 million to the local economy annually and in addition to the 80 people that he directly employs, McDonald’s and its suppliers support a further 750 jobs locally – that’s 830 jobs, contributing a massive £27 million to the local economy.

Franchisees such as Alan play an important role in the communities in which they operate. By becoming a franchisee he has made a 20 year commitment to Apsley so it is important that as a local businessman, his restaurant operates in a responsible way.

Mike said:

“It is a great credit to Alan, Kate and the staff that this business has such a massive and positive impact on the local community - as well as supplying all of us with an easy and convenient place to eat.”

This year marks 40 years since McDonald’s opened the doors of its first UK restaurant. Today, it operates restaurants in more than 1,200 communities across the UK, employing thousands of people, and serving millions of customers each year.

With just under 70% of its restaurants now franchised, McDonald’s franchisees play an integral part in the business.

All of the employees who work at the Apsley restaurant have access to industry-leading training and the chance to gain nationally-recognised qualifications. Qualifications range from GCSE equivalents in English and Maths, through to a Foundation Degree in Business Management Operations.

Around 80% of managers started out as crew and employees are offered a clear career ladder with award-winning training that can take them all the way to running their own franchise or to the boardroom.

Franchising is an integral part of McDonald’s overall strategy and they continue to grow their business through leading franchisees as well as being constantly on the lookout for new franchisees.

The recruitment process is rigorous and the interviews and ‘In Restaurant Experience’ process takes place over a number of months. However, it’s important for both parties to make sure they are comfortable with the partnership, hence this thorough approach to recruitment. In return McDonald’s provide a structured training programme and on-going support network that is industry leading.

Photo: Mike Penning MP with Franchisee Alan Butchers and Business Manager Kate Baciur.