McDonald’s Malaysia plans to invest RM1 billion (US$255 million) in store openings, store refurbishment and technology upgrades over the coming years.
Several local media outlets cited Datuk Azmir Jaafar, McDonald’s Malaysia MD and local operating partner, that the investment is part of the company’s long-term strategy to expand its nationwide network and build a “future-ready Malaysian workforce”.
According to Jaafar, the company will spend RM600 million on opening new restaurants, RM200 million on refurbishing existing locations, and another RM200 million on technology and digitalisation.
Jaafar shared the plans at a press conference following the reopening of McDonald’s Titiwangsa Drive-Thru at Jalan Pahang, the first McDonald’s drive-thru restaurant in Malaysia.
He added that the company will continue to strengthen its presence in Sabah and Sarawak as well as across Peninsular Malaysia, particularly in high-demand and tourism-driven areas.
The quick-service restaurant operator currently has more than 370 restaurants nationwide, including a franchise network of 25 outlets operated by 11 franchisees.
Jaafar said that the company targets to increase the number of franchise locations to between 70 and 100 within the next five to 10 years. The expansion is expected to create more than 10,000 new jobs, in line with the company’s 100 per cent local hiring policy.
“Franchising requires a significant investment of about RM5 million to RM7 million per restaurant, with payback periods typically between three to five years, indicating a relatively healthy return,” he added.
Further reading: McDonald’s Vietnam revives push for 100 stores within three years
