McVeterans give top level service
In the past workers reaching retirement headed out the door clutching a handful of presents and waving a fond farewell.
In the past workers reaching retirement headed out the door clutching a handful of presents and waving a fond farewell.
And although much has been made about the possibility of increasing the pensionable age, more older people are choosing to stay in work longer because they enjoy it – particularly, it seems, in the case of McDonald's staff.
More mature workers have also been given a boost after research by Lancaster University Management School found levels of customer satisfaction were on average 20 per cent higher in McDonald's restaurants that employ staff aged 60 and above.
Grandmother-of-two Jenny McLaughlin. aged 64, of Springfield Grove, in Penn has been a lobby hostess at the fast food giant in Penn Road, Wolverhampton, for the past 17 years. She currently works 13.5 hours a week.
She said: "I originally applied here as I was working in a number of different cleaning jobs and wanted something more permanent and secure with regular hours. I really enjoy working closely with the younger workers to help them settle in and progress especially when it comes to being reliable and professional – I've been here a long time so I know the drill."
Mrs McLaughlin said she had no plans to retire just yet, adding: "Working with the younger members of staff is also good for me as they help me keep up with the fast-paced environment. They also keep the atmosphere relaxed and fun and I enjoy bantering with them about the latest fashions and new technology. I enjoy the job and it is something which keeps me motivated and stimulated. Older workers have got experience and a bit of knowledge to fall back on."
McDonald's franchisee Abdul Sirkhot who operates 11 restaurants across Wolverhampton and the Black Country, said: "Most people think of us as a destination for first jobbers and while that's certainly true, it might surprise people to learn we employ over 1,000 people aged over 60 in the UK.
"These employees play an important role in my business and, as the research shows, they make a huge impact on customer satisfaction."
"I wouldn't be without my over-60s employees – together with the younger generations they deliver excellent customer service, something which is more important than ever."
