McDonald’s to Hire 75,000 Staff, Add 300–2,000 Coffee Stations in China

Looking for a job or faster access to McCafé coffee? Big changes are coming to McDonald’s in China this year. The world’s largest fast-food chain is stepping up its expansion in the country, with major investments in both staff and new coffee-focused outlets. If you’ve noticed more McDonald’s locations or McCafé counters popping up, there’s a reason — and it’s part of a broader push to meet rising demand for quick, quality coffee and meals.

McDonald’s will hire 75,000 new employees in China this year, increasing its local workforce by 83%. Alongside that, the company plans to open between 300 and 2,000 new coffee stations, aiming for a 45% rise in McCafé locations to 750 stores.

Why McDonald’s Is Expanding Its Workforce and Coffee Offerings

McDonald’s made the announcement on May 16, 2024, via email statement. Currently, the chain employs over 90,000 people across China. This recruitment drive is part of a strategy to keep pace with growing consumer demand driven by higher incomes and faster-paced lifestyles. As more Chinese customers seek convenient fast food and quality coffee, McDonald’s — alongside competitors like Burger King — is accelerating expansion.

The Bigger Fast-Food Picture in China

According to market research firm Euromonitor, China’s fast-food industry is projected to grow 14% in 2024, reaching a total market value of 115.1 billion RMB. In 2011, the industry was worth 86.9 billion RMB, with McDonald’s holding a 15.6% share. That same year, McDonald’s captured 39% of the market share that would later belong to Yum Brands — the parent company of KFC and Pizza Hut, which often operate right next door to McDonald’s outlets.

McCafé Expansion: More Coffee, More Locations

This year, McDonald’s intends to open between 300 and 2,000 new coffee stations in mainland China. Of the 75,000 new roles, 2,000 will specifically support coffee station operations. The company confirmed it will increase the number of McCafé outlets by 45%, raising their total to 750 locations. Most of the new hires — around 73,000 positions — will be standard restaurant staff, reflecting the overall growth across all formats.

What This Means for Customers

With more restaurants and dedicated coffee stations, customers can expect improved access to McCafé beverages and faster service. The expansion also signals McDonald’s commitment to competing in China’s booming coffee and fast-food market, where international chains are battling for dominance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many new employees is McDonald’s hiring in China this year?

McDonald’s is hiring 75,000 new employees in China in 2024, increasing its current workforce of over 90,000 by 83%.

How many new coffee stations is McDonald’s opening?

McDonald’s plans to open between 300 and 2,000 new coffee stations in mainland China this year.

What’s the target for McCafé growth in 2024?

McCafé locations are set to increase by 45%, growing from the current number to a total of 750 stores in China.

How many of the new jobs are for coffee stations?

Out of the 75,000 new roles, 2,000 are specifically for staffing the new coffee stations.

What is driving McDonald’s expansion in China?

Increased consumer income, faster lifestyles, and rising demand for fast food and coffee are driving McDonald’s aggressive expansion, along with competition from other global chains.

How big is China’s fast-food market expected to be in 2024?

Euromonitor projects China’s fast-food industry to reach 115.1 billion RMB in 2024, a 14% increase from the previous year.