Huge queues as McDonald’s re-opens two of its drive-thrus
ENORMOUS queues formed outside McDonald’s outlets as it re-opened two of its drive-thrus.
The two McDonald’s outlets in Bridgend were among the 168 sites across the UK to re-open their drivethrus to the public yesterday.
Hundreds of people eager to get their hands on the fast-food flocked to the restaurants on Pantruthin Farm and Picton Court Retail Park, with some customers reporting queues of up to an hour.
Security guards were on standby at Picton Court and had to divert traffic to prevent a jam on the A48.
The McDonald’s restaurants are open seven days a week but will be running reduced times of between 11am and 1pm.
A reduced menu is also being served and orders were capped to £25 per vehicle.
The fast-food giant was forced to close its restaurants in March when the UK was put into lockdown.
A spokesman from the company said yesterday: “This week we will reopen drive-thrus across the UK and Ireland, starting with 168 locations from 11am today. We will also see a further 22 restaurants open for McDelivery today.
“We are glad to be back but it will look a little different and may take a little longer, so please bear with us.
“We’re delighted to be returning to communities across the UK and Ireland, thank you for your continued support and patience. We look forward to seeing you soon.”
McDonald’s has warned it has fewer employees in its kitchens to enable teams to socially distance and work safely; there will be a limited menu (no breakfast or shakes for now) and restaurants will open for reduced hours. The company is encouraging customers to use contactless payment methods and cap spending at £25.
A spokesman added: “For those visiting our drive-thrus, you can browse the menu, order and pay ahead using the My McDonald’s App – we’ll start preparing your order when you’re near the restaurant.”
McDonald’s had already opened 44 restaurants for drive-thru but the rest will follow this week.