New Schomberg McDonald’s breaks ground

December 9, 2015 · 0 Comments

A.J. Kang from Petro-Canada, McDonald’s operations supervisor Sandi Begg and franchise owner Rory MacKinnon break ground in Schomberg.

By Mark Pavilons
“None of us are as good as all of us.”
That sentiment propels McDonald’s ever forward. And now, they’re coming to King.
Rory MacKinnon brings with him literally decades of experience with the fast food giant. His story is a marvellous tale of working his way up the corporate ladder. And he’s enjoyed every minute of it.
MacKinnon owns restaurants in Alliston and Angus and jumped at the chance to locate one in Schomberg. Rory and his wife Marlene both work in the business. They live in Alliston with their children.
He recalls that when Chicago Blackhawks coach, and Schomberg native Mike Kitchen brought the Stanley Cup to the Trisan Centre in 2012, MacKinnon was there. As part of the Clans of Tesumseth – Pipes & Drums band, MacKinnon waited on the patch of grass at the southeast corner of Highway 27 and Dr. Kay Drive. He thought to himself that this would make a great spot for a McDonald’s one day.
Months later, the head office called and said that very spot was available.
MacKinnon said he loves the small town atmosphere in Schomberg and finds the residents very welcoming.
The new restaurant will be part of a Petro-Canada complex that includes a 24-hour gas bar and car wash. The marriage between McDonald’s and Petro Canada is common in Quebec and out west, and it’s becoming a good fit these days. The one built in Caledon a couple of years ago served as the template for the Schomberg restaurant.
MacKinnon said he will have 3,800 square feet and seating for 60 people. There will be a two-lane drive-thru and even self-serve touch-screen kiosks at the restaurant that will be open 24/7. MacKinnon said he will employ upwards of 70 staff. Some of his existing employees in Alliston are from Schomberg so he will have some seasoned team members on site. They will have TVs and WiFi, and an area to accommodate young athletes who have games at the Trisan Centre.
The restaurant will have a modern look and MacKinnon said he’s very pleased with they way it’s going to look.
Hopes are the McDonald’s can open by June 2016. MacKinnon admitted they are a bit behind schedule, but have worked out the hurdles with York Region. King’s mayor, councillors and staff have all been supportive of the project.
McDonald’s does have corporate charities, and supports Toronto’s Ronald McDonald House, which provides housing for families who have children undergoing medical treatments.
MacKinnon said they will support local charities, too, once they settle in and determine the need.
This new corporate partner in King will help boost the local economy and help shape the local business landscape.