Business Engage Profiles McDonald’s franchise focuses on making a difference

A McDonald’s franchise in Warwickshire which is committed to its employees, customers and the wider community has launched a number of collaborative schemes to make a difference in its local area.

People Arches Limited began running the McDonald’s on Emscote Road, which borders Warwick and Leamington Spa, in December 2023.

Under the leadership of Director Dawood Ibtehsam, the restaurant has a diverse workforce of 81 employees, all aged between 16 and 64, spanning 17 different nationalities.

Dawood, who has a background in operations management, logistics, commerce and supply chain, was keen to ensure the restaurant strives to create a positive and lasting impact on the area it serves, and has worked with his team to develop a number of initiatives to support the local community.

One of its key partnerships is with Coventry and Warwickshire Mind, where People Arches Limited focuses on providing mental health support to both employees and customers by welcoming the charity’s support truck to the restaurant once a month.

The team is also dedicated to keeping the community clean and safe, and conducts regular “Trash Walks” which have seen employees walk 1,000 miles and collect almost 500 bags of litter from the streets of Warwick and Leamington Spa.

People Arches Limited worked with the local council to identify the areas most in need of support. The walks now take place three times a week.

In addition, the franchise collaborates with Warwickshire Hearts to provide essential CPR training to locals, offering its space for life-saving training to help equip the community with vital skills.

Finally, People Arches Limited donates to its local foodbank once a month, ensuring that those in need have access to essential supplies.

Dawood said: “At People Arches Limited we believe that a successful business goes beyond serving great food. Our mission is to be a people-centred company that deeply cares for our community, our customers and our employees.

“Through our commitment to hospitality and community service, we strive to create a positive and lasting impact on the areas we serve.

“Our restaurant is more than just a place to enjoy a meal - it’s a hub for community engagement and support.

“We’ve made it our goal to offer a unique and welcoming experience for all our guests. With a friendly bunny mascot, face painting for children and engaging merchandise, we aim to create memorable moments that keep our customers coming back.

“But what truly sets People Arches Limited apart is our deep-rooted commitment to the Warwick and Leamington Spa communities.

“We believe in leading by example, and that’s why we’ve partnered with several local charities to give back in meaningful ways.

“All of these initiatives have been chosen by members of the team who are all keen to do the right thing for our community.

“We understand that a strong community makes for a stronger business, and we are proud to be a part of the fabric of Warwick and Leamington Spa.

“Since taking over the restaurant in December last year, People Arches Limited has seen growth in both sales and customer satisfaction.

“Looking to the future, we remain committed to deepening our community impact, exploring new ways to engage with our customers and continuing to grow within the McDonald’s brand.”