McDonald’s India, North and East has marked a significant milestone in its journey of empowering young individuals across the region through its flagship initiative, ‘McDonald’s for Youth.’ The programme has supported over 2,500 youth in taking their first steps into the workforce, surpassing its original hiring goals and reinforcing the brand’s long-term commitment to inclusive growth.

The initiative is focused on creating meaningful employment opportunities for young people, especially those from less privileged backgrounds. By working closely with non-governmental organisations and community groups, the programme equips participants with essential skills, confidence, and clear pathways for long-term professional growth.

Designed to contribute to India’s broader growth story, ‘McDonald’s for Youth’ integrates McDonald’s global training curriculum. Participants receive structured training across key areas such as customer service, communication, teamwork, food safety and hygiene, and professional development, helping them build a strong foundation for their careers.

Commenting on the milestone, Rajeev Ranjan, Managing Director, McDonald’s India – North and East, said, “At McDonald’s, we believe every person has the opportunity to grow, learn, and discover their potential. Through ‘McDonald’s for Youth,’ we have supported over 2,500 young individuals in taking their first steps into the workforce, equipping them not just with skills, but with confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose. Each story of growth reminds us that meaningful opportunities can transform lives, strengthen communities, and build a foundation for a brighter future. This milestone reflects our commitment to empowering youth and creating pathways that extend far beyond the restaurant walls.”

Since its inception, the initiative has expanded across Tier 1 and Tier 2 markets including Delhi NCR, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. In its current phase, the programme is increasingly driven by local catchment-based outreach, with teams engaging directly with nearby villages and communities to create awareness about structured employment opportunities and encourage higher youth participation.

Youth recruited under the programme undergo hands-on training across core areas such as food safety and hygiene, customer service, cash handling, teamwork, and restaurant operations. These transferable skills enhance employability not only within McDonald’s but also across the wider service sector.

Building on the success of this milestone, McDonald’s India, North and East plans to further scale the initiative and is inviting NGO partners across cities including Kolkata, Bhubaneshwar, Lucknow, and other locations to collaborate in the next phase of youth employment. NGOs interested in participating in the initiative can reach out at hiring.ngo@del.in.mcd.com.

About McDonald’s India North and East:

McDonald’s restaurants in North and East India are operated by Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. The brand is committed to delivering high-quality restaurant experiences and serves a wide range of menu options made using quality ingredients sourced locally. McDonald’s serves millions of customers annually across its 300 restaurants and 180 McCafe outlets in the region and provides direct employment to over 6,000 people. With a strong customer-first approach, the brand operates through multiple formats including standalone restaurants, Drive-thru’s, and 24/7 outlets.