McDonald's to create 2,500 jobs

Restaurant giant McDonald's is to create at least 2,500 new jobs this year, taking its UK workforce to 93,500, the firm has announced.

The move follows 3,500 new jobs that McDonald's created last year, of which 70% were taken by young people under the age of 21.

McDonald's has added more than 20,000 people to its workforce during the last five years.

The company said its growth has been driven by investment in its restaurants and technology and extended opening hours and menu choice.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: "A highly-skilled workforce is an important part of any growing business. That's why I am pleased to see how McDonald's is providing training and apprenticeships in a range of skills.

"McDonald's is also to be applauded for helping adult employees get qualifications in maths and English. Poor literacy and numeracy skills can hold people back in the workplace, which is why the Government has doubled the funding for these core subjects."

Jill McDonald, chief executive of McDonald's UK, said: "These remain challenging economic conditions but I'm pleased that, together with our franchisees, our continued focus on serving quality, affordable food and giving our customers a great experience is enabling us to keep investing in our business and creating jobs.

"Whilst today's job market is hugely competitive, we offer many people their first experience of work and we're focused on doing what we can to help more young people get into quality jobs and careers.

"To help young people get on in life, it's crucial for major employers like us to keep investing in training and people development, because companies like ours can make a big difference through the jobs we create and the support we provide."