The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Accommodation / Food 56 - Food and beverage service activities 56.1 - Restaurants and mobile food service activities 56.11 - Restaurant activities
350 jobs Number of planned job creations
Announcement Date
8 April 2026
Employment effect (start)
8 April 2026
Foreseen end date
31 December 2026
Description
Global fast food chain, McDonald’s is to invest €150 million over the next five years to open 25 new restaurants nationwide. The investment will create approximately 1,750 new jobs over five years.
The fast food chain expects to open five outlets per year, with expansion already under way following the recent opening of a restaurant in New Ross county Wexford. The investment comes ahead of McDonald’s 50th anniversary in Ireland in 2027, when it aims to open its 100th outlet. Alongside new openings, the company continues to invest in existing sites, including a €3 million refurbishment of the Cork Douglas restaurant, which reopened in late 2025.
Public authorities were involved at a promotional and endorsement level. Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and TD for Cork South-Central, Jerry Buttimer, publicly welcomed the announcement and highlighted its contribution to employment and regional development
McDonald’s currently operates 96 restaurants in Ireland, all independently owned and run by 18 Irish franchisees. The company employs more than 7,000 people nationwide and contributes over €414 million annually to the Irish economy.
Eurofound (2026), McDonald's, Business expansion in Ireland, factsheet number 204576, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/204576.
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