Mixed reaction to Macca’s moving in
There has been a mixed reaction from Bell Block businesses about a fast food giant moving in on their doorstep.
McDonald’s has confirmed it will open a restaurant on Henwood Rd, next to the Bell Block overpass, in the second half of 2020.
There are already a number of takeaway restaurants in the northern New Plymouth suburb, but it’s not panic stations just yet.
‘‘What did Henry Ford say? Competition is good,’’ said Checkers Fast Food owner Shane Wolfe, who has been in business on Corbett Rd for 20 years.
While he thought it would take some of his patronage away, he was not overly concerned, he said.
‘‘I do have a lot of loyal customers. I’ve built up over years and years.’’
He said the traffic congestion may be an issue.
‘‘There’s quite a congestion of traffic around that area on the bridge and everything. We’ll see how that goes.’’
William Zhou, of Chinatown Takeaways, said it will be good for the community but not for the businesses.
‘‘I think all the shops in Bell Block and Parklands should be affected by McDonald’s,’’ he said.
‘‘Everyone knows it and everyone loves it.’’
But he also pointed out that Chinatown attracted customers for the healthier Chinese takeaways.
Tanz Johns from Bell Block Barbers said it would be great for the community and create more jobs, but it probably would affect the food businesses.
‘‘We need something new. I think it will entice people to come out here. We’ve already got the better Warehouse,’’ she quipped.
Anirudh Tanwar, who works at The Block cafe and restaurant, said his fellow students at the Pacific International Hotel Management School were excited.
‘‘My whole friends’ circle, we’re quite happy for that. If it is open 24/7 that will be much better.’’
However, on social media, a number of people felt Kmart would have been a better option, and there were also calls for Wendy’s, Carls Jnr, Dunkin Donuts or another KFC.
‘‘I think New Plymouth is behind the times with shopping options ... Kmart Kmart Kmart !!!!! ,’’ Monique Soffe wrote.
‘‘Great employment opportunities for BBK teens,’’ Lee Smith added.