AFTER much anticipation and its fair share of antagonism, Orange’s second McDonald’s in north Orange will officially open its doors to customers on Wednesday.
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Owner Todd Bryant, who also owns Orange’s other McDonald’s on the Mitchell Highway, as well stores in Bathurst and Kelso, said he could not wait for customers to visit the state-of-the-art restaurant.
“When I saw it I said ‘wow’. I’ve worked for McDonalds for the past 35 years and I’ve never seen anything like it,” he said.
“I think people will notice the little extras.”
Mr Bryant said despite some community debate about the fast food restaurant’s north Orange location, the feedback he had received in recent weeks had been positive.
“I think it’s good when people voice their opinions and changes are made, quite often the changes are for the better,” he said.
Mr Bryant said he was pleased that, as a result of public concern, soundproofing and insulation were installed to reduce noise for nearby residents.
He said, now all the construction work had been completed, he expected residents to be happy with the outlet’s modern and contemporary look.
“It blends in with the neighbourhood and it’s a lot more pleasant than the vacant lot that was there,” he said.
Mr Bryant also does not expect restaurant traffic to add to traffic flow problems in the area.
“They’re not McDonald’s problems, they’re pre-existing,” he said.
In the lead-up to the opening, on Monday night, staff will test-run the store by bringing in their families and cooking for them.
Workers and their families will also be able to talk to Mr Bryant about the store’s operation.
Mr Bryant said he would be asking for a gold-coin donation, which would be passed on to Ronald McDonald House.
“It’s good to be able to give them (staff and their family) an insight before the public see it,” he said.
“I’m expecting around 150 people, but there could be more.
“One person asked if they could bring their seven brothers and sisters and I said ‘sure, but you’re cooking for them,’.”
tracey.prisk@fairfaxmedia.com.au