Lancashire McDonald’s franchise H&S Restaurants, which is owned by the brand’s former chief operating officer Nigel Dunnington, has acquired its 19th restaurant.
It has opened in a former pub in Woodale Road in Clayton Green, Preston, creating 45 jobs. Formerly The Beaumont pub, the site was sold in 2023, four years after it had been bought from Marston’s by Admiral Taverns.
Dunnington, who served as McDonald’s chief operating officer from 1998-2001, said: “We are delighted to be opening another new McDonald’s restaurant in Clayton Green and can’t wait to see customers enjoy our services on offer.”
Having started out as a trainee manager at its branch in London’s Marble Arch in 1980, Dunnington worked his way up to become regional manager for the north of England in 1991.
After his spell as chief operating officer, Dunnington also served as McDonald’s vice-president worldwide operations, based in Chicago, from 2001 to 2004, and training and vice-president European operations from 2004 to 2006.
Missing the day-to-day in-branch contact with staff and customers, he started franchising in 2006 with five McDonald’s branches in Preston.
In the year to 31 December 2023, H&S Restaurants grew its turnover from £77,053,809 in 2022 to £82,531,667. Pre-tax profit grew from £1,730,718 to £2,568,286. Dividends of £1m were paid, the same as in 2022.
With three young children, including one with special needs, home life is as full-on as his workday: “It’s a challenge, but I’ve built a trusted team that makes it all possible.”
Stephen makes the most of his free time with his family saying: “I love taking the caravan out with my partner and kids to explore the UK.
We’ve discovered some incredible coastlines and enjoy simple pleasures, like traditional fish and chips by the seaside, which always tastes better fresh and salty from the sea air.”
Despite the brand’s increasing national presence and a string of industry awards, Hopper remains grounded in his mission to make business ownership more accessible. He’s especially proud of the impact Plan Burrito has had on its franchisees.
He said: “When someone tells me that owning a franchise has changed their life, that they finally feel in control of their future, that’s the most rewarding part of all of this.”
Reflecting on his journey, Hopper offers one piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: “You don’t need experience. What you need is belief, persistence, and a lot of elbow grease.”
