McDonald's (MCD.US) will open 200 new restaurants in the UK and Ireland to accelerate its global expansion.

McDonald's (MCD.US) plans to open 200 new restaurants in the UK and Ireland over the next four years as part of its £1bn expansion strategy. The move will create around 24,000 jobs, the biggest expansion in the region in 20 years.

This is a significant leap from the £618m McDonald's has invested in new restaurants and refurbishments over the past six years. The fast-food giant opened 41 new restaurants in 2023, the most in 20 years.

The chain will try new restaurant formats, such as smaller restaurants and drive-throughs.

The move is in line with McDonald's global goal to open 10,000 more restaurants by 2027.

Alistair Macrow, CEO of McDonald's UK and Ireland, said in a report celebrating McDonald's 50th anniversary in the UK: “We have become an integral part of communities across the UK and I am delighted that in this landmark year we have been able to demonstrate our continued commitment to growth.”