New McDonald’s opens in Leisure Way, Lowestoft, creating 80 jobs

A new fast-food outlet has opened in a Suffolk seaside town, creating 80 full and parti-time jobs.

McDonald’s franchisee Lee Sparkes cut the ribbon as hit latest restaurant in Leisure Way, Lowestoft yesterday (November 16).

The 76-seater venue features table service, self-ordering kiosks, a large outside patio area as well as a drive through.

Mr Sparkes now operates three McDonald’s franchises in Suffolk

He said: “We are delighted to be opening another brand-new McDonald’s restaurant in Lowestoft and can’t wait to see customers enjoy the new features and our services on offer.

“People are at the heart of our business, and so we look forward to welcoming 80 new employees from the local area over the coming months.”

Mr Sparkes was joined by Geoff Stevens, director Pathways Care Farm, to open the restaurant.

The charity provides local vulnerable people the opportunity to learn, rebuild and grow through hands-in farming activities, and has received support from Mr Sparkes and his McDonald’s teams in the past through engagement in volunteer events.

The new restaurant will follow McDonald’s ‘Convenience of the Future’ programme, combining a new layout with the latest technology to enhance the experience for customers.

This will include a front counter redesign to create more dining space and less congestion around touchscreens, an improved car park layout to improve circulation around the venue and a new kitchen design to help staff serve customers more quickly.

The outlet also has several innovations aimed at improving sustainability, including roof mounted solar panels, cladding made from recycled IT equipment and a rainwater harvesting system.