MCDONALD’S and its suppliers make an annual contribution of £11.2 million to the Warrington economy, according to an independent report.

The fast food giant alone directly generated more than £9 million in the town in 2017, employing 654 people in the process.

Marking 45 years operating in the UK, the research was carried out by Development Economics to understand the value McDonald’s has made to the economy, local communities, its employees, and customers since 1974.

And the study details the many changes the business has undergone to meet customer needs and the key challenges it faces as it heads towards its 50th year in 2024.

Dave Shaw, a franchisee who runs and operates seven restaurants in Warrington, said: “Creating and sustaining jobs across Warrington is of huge importance to me, and the fact that we have made such a significant financial contribution to the area is something my team and I are very proud of.

“We employ people based on their qualities, but I also believe in investing in my staff to provide them with an interesting and enjoyable workplace and qualifications to draw upon throughout their life.

“We know that people take a job with McDonald’s for all sorts of reasons, and that is why we offer our employees flexible working options.”

Dave’s teams in Warrington and Earlestown also help their communities by keeping them tidy with regular litter picks and fundraising for St Rocco’s Hospice.

The report as a whole finds that nationwide, McDonald’s and its supply chain is estimated to be worth £3.36 billion per year to the UK economy.

This totals £54.4 billion over the past 45 years alongside the creation of 2.1 million jobs.

In the north west, the business has contributed £236 million to the area, supported 21,430 jobs and provided farmers with £25 million.

By including suppliers, the total contribution in the north west is £407m.