McDonald’s Strand Road restaurant celebrates 25 years in Derry

Opening in 2000, McDonald’s Strand Road now employs over 160 staff from the local community in a range of full-time and part-time roles, ranging from crew members to managerial posts.

Over the past 25 years, the restaurant has seen a number of transformations, including several refurbishments and the introduction of digital ordering kiosks, table service and McDelivery. These upgrades are part of McDonald’s broader innovation strategy, including programmes like ‘Experience of the Future’ and ‘Convenience of the Future’, aimed at improving both the customer journey and employee experience.

Commenting on the milestone, Franchisee David Walker said: “McDonald’s is passionate about feeding and fostering the local communities in which we serve, and that commitment has always been steadfast in Derry. 

“We have always had a strong presence in the city across our three restaurants, and it is great to celebrate 25 fantastic years at Strand Road. This milestone is a proud moment, and it’s been a privilege to lead the team here.

“It’s a celebration of our journey and of the people who’ve made it possible – our loyal customers and hardworking crew. We’ve welcomed generations of families through our doors, and their continued support means the world to us.

“I also want to thank our incredible team, for the passion, energy and commitment they bring every day. Any success we’ve had and continue to have is down to their dedication and teamwork and I look forward to leading the team into the future.”

The Strand Road team continues to serve the community with high-quality food made using ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers such as Kerry Group, Moy Park and Dawn Meats.

Since first opening its doors in 2000, the restaurant has also remained deeply committed to supporting the local area. David and his team have forged long-standing partnerships with schools, community groups and grassroots sports organisations, celebrating their achievements and helping to positively impact the lives of children and adults across Derry. 

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“We take huge pride in the longstanding relationships we have forged and nurtured with local schools, community groups and grassroots sports organisations such as Maiden City Soccer and Oxford United Stars,” Mr Walker added. 

“We are proud to support and encourage them across the year, celebrating their achievements and the positive difference they make to the lives of children and adults in the local area.”

Among the longest-serving staff in the restaurant are Jacqueline Doherty People Manager, who has served 25 years, Louise Mackel Assistant Manager who has served 25 years, and Liam Campbell, who has progressed through a number of roles across the last 25 Years.

Liam Campbell commented: “Working at McDonald’s has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I started my journey as a crew member and, over the years, I’ve had countless opportunities to grow, develop new skills and take on more responsibility.

The company truly invests in its people, whether it’s training, career progression or the flexibility that helps maintain a great work-life balance beyond the restaurant, I’m proud to be part of such a supportive and motivated team and for the journey I’ve had with at Strand Road.”