MEP Barry Cowen visits McDonald’s in Tullamore to discuss employment and local investment

MEP Barry Cowen met with management and staff at the McDonald’s restaurant in Tullamore to discuss the role of the hospitality sector in supporting employment, skills development and local communities.

The visit highlighted the important role hospitality businesses play in providing opportunities for young people and students.

The restaurant, operated by Pattina Products Ltd under Seán Quirke, employs 84 people in Tullamore, many of whom are students balancing work alongside their studies. Flexible scheduling was identified as a key factor in supporting this.

“The hospitality sector continues to play a vital role in towns like Tullamore, providing important employment opportunities and helping people, particularly younger workers, to develop valuable skills,” Cowen said.

Pattina Products Ltd employs more than 627 people across eight McDonald’s restaurants, and has continued to expand in recent years, including the acquisition of three additional sites in 2023.

The Tullamore restaurant also underwent a full refurbishment in October 2025, representing an investment of €2.1 million.