Committed to build fast food store

McDonalds remains committed to build a fast food outlet in Umina, according to owner and operator Mr Ron Mussali.

Mr Mussalli said McDonalds Australia is "hesitant to agree that the current opposition of a new McDonald's in the Umina Beach area is from the majority of the community".

"McDonalds believes in the growth potential of the area and is committed to supporting the Umina Beach community," he said.

Mr Mussalli said McDonalds was a recognisable and successful brand and would bring significant benefits to the community, whether in a suburban shopping strip or a country town.

"Beyond the jobs created by each restaurant, a McDonalds can often drive tourist or transient trade in an area or town, creating increased opportunity for spending in other local businesses," said Mr Mussalli.

He confirmed that "the restaurant would create approximately 100 casual and full time jobs for local residents".

"Local McDonald's restaurants also offer considerable sponsorship and partnership opportunities for local sporting or other community teams, clubs and events," he said.

"This is due to our operating philosophy of giving back to the communities in which we operate."

Mr Mussalli said the chain paid attention to litter that the restaurant may produce.

"In each of our restaurants, we have programs in place to manage the potential of litter finding its way outside of McDonald's bins," he said.

"Just as our customers and neighbours do, we aim to ensure that our surroundings are always clean and free from litter.

"Our Clean Streets program includes initiatives designed to keep the area around our restaurants tidy and clean.

"The key to this is the Litter Patrol program which is a structured and regular task for crew members who pick up litter from within the restaurant grounds and in neighbouring streets.

"Adherence to the Litter Patrol program is ensured by including this activity in the regular assessments conducted at each restaurant.

"Within the Clean Streets program, we are also consistently reminding our customers not to litter via our packaging, tray mats and restaurant rubbish bins," said Mr Mussalli.

Media Statement, 20 Jan 2012 Ron Mussalli, McDonalds Australia