McDonald’s has confirmed a new UK opening in the North East of England, creating more than 200 jobs.

The fast food chain has opened a state-of-the-art distribution centre in Darlington this week, with the 138,000 sq ft site set to supply more than 200 McDonald’s restaurants across the North East, ensuring fresher and faster deliveries for the region. According to McDonald’s, the distribution centre’s opening will also reduce average drive times by one hour, saving approximately 2.5 million road miles every year, reducing carbon emissions across its supply chain.

More than 70 suppliers bring over 400 different products into the distribution centre, which are then stored, sorted and delivered to over 200 McDonald’s restaurants.

McDonald’s said the development is fully aligned with its ambition of achieving net zero by 2040 and the reduction of its greenhouse gas emissions that is required to do this.

The site, which has created over 200 jobs for local people, has been built to BREEAM Excellent standards and features on-site solar generation and an electric vehicle infrastructure, including 13 electric car chargers and 17 electric trailer points that support cleaner transport.

Laura Henderson, vice president, supply chain at McDonald’s UK & Ireland, said: “The new distribution centre is a major milestone for our business and demonstrates our commitment to the North East.

“Investing in Darlington means investing in people, in local jobs, and in a more sustainable future. By cutting road miles, strengthening our network, and supporting local employment at scale, this centre shows how we can grow responsibly while supporting our customers and the communities we serve.”

The opening on Thursday (March 5) was commemorated with an event attended by Members of Darlington Borough Council, including Leader Stephen Hark, and representatives from McDonald’s and Martin Brower.

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Parv Sangera, managing director at Martin Brower UK & Ireland, added: “We’re incredibly proud to open the doors to our Darlington facility, a project that reflects our long‑standing partnership with McDonald’s and our shared focus on resiliency, innovation, and sustainability.

“Built to BREEAM Excellent standards and incorporating a unique frozen‑chilled‑ambient cold chain, the centre represents a truly forward‑thinking approach.

“It shows what’s possible when we combine operational excellence with a strong commitment to the communities we serve.”