In a significant move towards bolstering the local economy and job market, McDonald’s has recently opened a new restaurant in Blakes Crossing, marking a major investment of over $5 million in the local economy and the creation of over 100 new job opportunities in various roles including crew, barista, management, and maintenance positions.
This initiative is part of McDonald’s Australia’s larger commitment to expand its footprint nationwide, with the aim to open 100 new restaurants and remodel half of its existing establishments by the end of 2025. This ambitious plan is set to inject more than $1 billion into the Australian economy and generate over 40,000 new jobs, substantially boosting the country’s employment sector.
John Walsh is the owner and operator of the Blakes Crossing outlet and a veteran in the McDonald’s community with over 39 years of experience. Walsh started his journey with McDonald’s as a Trainee Manager and has since grown to manage nine restaurants in South Australia—Blakes Crossing, Elizabeth, Elizabeth Shopping Centre, Gawler, Gilles Plains, Kadina, Northfield, Nuriootpa and Smithfield.
Collectively, these establishments employ over 1,100 local community members, significantly contributing to the regional employment landscape.
In a statement, John Walsh expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture.
‘We are excited to open our doors on McDonald’s Blakes Crossing and provide jobs, training and development opportunities for the local community. The new restaurant will provide customers with a friendly and convenient place to access food and drinks, whether they’re popping in for a quick coffee or staying for lunch.’
Moreover, the new restaurant aligns with McDonald’s focus on community engagement.
‘As a local business, we are proud to support local charities and groups that are important to our customers and people, including Angle Vale Women’s Football Club, South Gawler Cricket Club and South Gawler Football Club’, Walsh added.
The McDonald’s Blakes Crossing is a modern establishment equipped with a dual-lane drive-thru, a dedicated partner delivery room, a McCafe, and a PlayPlace. The restaurant also showcases McDonald’s commitment to sustainability, featuring solar panels, a heat recovery water system, LED lighting, and wheel stops made of recycled materials in the car park, all contributing to reduced emissions and energy use.
As a key employer in the region, John also highlighted his commitment to providing all employees with premium training and development opportunities.
‘McDonald’s invests millions of dollars into training and development initiatives each year, offering nationally recognised certifications in the food and retail sectors. We are passionate about supporting the professional development of our people and providing workplace skills applicable to any career.’
McDonald’s is actively hiring for various positions across Adelaide, including crew, barista, management, and maintenance roles, reflecting its ongoing commitment to job creation and economic development.
The company has grown significantly since the opening of Australia’s first McDonald’s restaurant in Yagoona, Sydney, in 1971. Today, there are over 1,025 McDonald’s restaurants across Australia, employing more than 110,000 people in both restaurants and corporate offices nationwide.
As the largest employer of youth in the country, McDonald’s creates over 3,000 new jobs each year and invests more than $40 million annually in training and people development.
‘We look forward to serving up our great tasting, great quality menu and providing feel good moments for our customers.’
What: McDonalds Blakes Crossing. Where: Lot 1480 Village Terrace, Blakeview SA 5114For more information or to apply for a role, click here.
