Kentish Express Ashford & District
Another McDonald’s drive-thru on way
McDonald’s bosses say they plan to open another drive-thru in the town within the next two years.
The popular fast-food chain, which already has four restaurants in the town, is already in talks with developers about where to build the site.
It is not yet known where the restaurant will go, but franchisee Paul Crocker says it will be outside the town centre.
“There are other drive-thru opportunities we are pursuing with developers,” Mr Crocker told the Kentish Express.
“Nothing is concrete, but we are hoping to put in another drive-thru and with all of the development in the town, it does produce opportunities. “We are looking at sites all the time, but it does take quite a long while to get things sorted.”
Mr Crocker already runs the McDonald’s in the High Street, Eureka Park and Ashford Designer Outlet.
His fourth restaurant in the town, at Ashford Orbital Park, is the second most popular drivethru in Britain.
“The location is key to its success and it is run by some brilliant people,” Mr Crocker added.
“Being the second busiest in the country is something to be pleased and proud about.
“The work we have done since taking over the restaurant has really paid off.”
Mr Crocker, who oversaw a £1.5 million revamp of the Orbital restaurant recently, says the site employs 160 staff, with 60% on a full-time basis.
He is celebrating 20 years since the restaurant opened this year.
“The work took nine weeks and it was very expensive and a big investment, but they are very busy,” Mr Crocker added.
“Sales are growing and people are coming in bigger numbers.
“We have put 50% more seating in and it is working well.”
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