Woolwich McDonald's celebrated its 50th anniversary in style yesterday, marking a golden milestone for the UK’s first McDonald's restaurant on Powis Street.
The fast-food spot, which opened in November 1974, hosted a special event for the local community on November 13 and invited residents to join the festivities.
To commemorate the occasion, the restaurant gave away 50 free Extra Value Medium Meals to customers.
Attendees were also treated to limited-edition McDonald's merchandise, including quirky Big Mac socks, keyrings and Milkshake-scented air fresheners.
The event took a nostalgic turn as the Mayor of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Councillor Jit Ranabhat, joined the celebration, just as the local dignitary did half a century ago at the restaurant’s grand opening.
Since its establishment in Woolwich, McDonald's has expanded to over 1,450 locations across the UK and employs around 177,000 people.
The Woolwich branch remains a special landmark, a reminder of the humble beginnings of one of the nation’s most popular fast-food chains.
Varsha Vas, Shift Manager, has worked for the Woolwich restaurant for 34 years. She said: "I can’t believe we’re celebrating 50 years of Woolwich McDonald’s!
“I’m really proud to be the longest-serving employee here, and today’s celebrations are making me very nostalgic – I’ve got so many great memories across the decades.
“So much has changed, but it’s really the people who make this place feel like home. I started as a Crew Member 34 years ago, and now I’m a proud Shift Manager.
“The Woolwich restaurant has supported me every step of the way, and I’m so grateful for all the opportunities and memories."
McDonald’s Franchisee, Taimoor Sheikh, who owns and operates the Woolwich restaurant and eight others in South-East London, said: “We are incredibly proud to celebrate 50 years of McDonald’s Woolwich serving our wonderful community.
“This milestone is a testament to the loyalty and support of our customers, as well as the hard work and dedication of our team.
“It was fantastic to have Mayor, Councillor Jit Ranabhat, join us and to give back to our community with free meals and a fun party at the UK’s very first McDonald’s restaurant.
“We look forward to many more years of creating memorable experiences together.”
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