This expansion marks the fast-food giant’s most significant growth initiative in over two decades, underscoring its confidence in the UK high street.

The ambitious plan is backed by a £1 billion investment from McDonald’s and its franchisees.

Currently, McDonald’s operates 1,435 restaurants in the UK, with approximately 80% owned by franchisees.

With over 170,000 employees, the company stated that the expansion will focus on opening more high street locations and testing new restaurant formats, including smaller sites and “drive-to” locations.

These new UK and Ireland locations are part of McDonald’s broader goal of adding 10,000 restaurants worldwide by 2027.

Alistair Macrow, CEO of McDonald’s UK & Ireland, commented, “Since opening our first restaurant in Woolwich 50 years ago, we’ve become an integral part of communities across the UK. I’m thrilled that, in this milestone year, we can reaffirm our commitment to growth by announcing the creation of new jobs and the opening of more than 200 restaurants over the next four years.

“This is a time to celebrate and also to look toward the future—whether by continuing to offer great value, investing in our restaurants, supporting our UK suppliers, or launching new initiatives for young people where our communities need it most.”