Location: Nationwide

Delivery Model: Project Management

EllisDon completed the McDonald’s Destination 2012 program, which included national upgrades for 1,400 existing restaurant locations across Canada. The projects were managed by EllisDon Project Management Services, and included the following scope:

1. Re-Image/Re-Model Complete Interior and Exterior Renovation

The scope included a remodel of the front counter service, the installation of a self-serve beverage area and McCafe services, and a full-service premium coffee bar. Some restaurants required a complete overhaul inside and out.

2. Drive-Thru Optimization

The Drive-Thru was converted from a face-to-face ordering system to a speaker/order display system built into the Drive-Thru menu board. Additionally, Drive-Thru curb paving and lane spacing improvements were constructed to increase vehicle capacity and future growth for twin Drive-Thru lanes.

3. Production Platform Upgrade (also known as the “Made For You” line)

Implementing the production platform included a reconfiguration that improved efficiency and enabled larger capacity orders and future menu expansion. Depending on the location, renovations included the relocation and optimization of grills, hoods, fryers, and sinks to create more space and make the food separation process more efficient.

One of the main challenges of managing the construction of the McDonald’s projects was allocating the resources to complete sixteen locations in five months, with as many as six sites at the same time. The restaurants were required to remain open (including the Drive-Thrus) during the renovation period. In order to avoid any dust or debris entering the occupied areas, the team set up tarps around the site to protect the public and ensure their dining experience wasn’t compromised. In addition, the small parking lots and neighboring retail locations provided minimal laydown areas. To overcome this challenge while maintaining the project schedule, EllisDon implemented a just-in-time installation delivery system.