A McDonald’s branch in Greater Manchester has become the first in the UK to introduce a dedicated ‘business zone’ – and anyone under 16 isn’t welcome.
The Whitefield restaurant has cordoned off part of its seating area for adults only on weekdays, reserving the space specifically for remote workers and laptop users looking for a quiet environment to get things done.
The new set up is designed to cater to customers who want a calmer experience, allowing people to send emails, take video calls or even hold meetings in McDonald’s without the usual background noise.
The area is also available to pre-book by companies for group business meetings, although space isn’t guaranteed.
A notice spotted in the restaurant reads: ‘On weekdays this area is reserved for business/laptop users and adults over 16.
‘If you’re lucky enough to look under 16, we reserve the right to ask you to use an alternative area of the restaurant.’
McDonald’s confirmed that the new quiet zone is only available at the Whitefield branch and is not a company-wide initiative.
Simon Toft, who owns and operates the restaurant, said: ‘Customer experience in my restaurant is incredibly important to me, and my team and I work hard to make sure everyone has a great time when visiting Whitefield McDonald’s.
‘After listening to customer feedback, we’ve introduced a dedicated Business Area on weekdays for anyone ages 16 and over who wants a quieter space to work or study.
‘We want the restaurant to be a space that works for everyone—whether you’re bringing the kids to enjoy the Play Place or looking for a calm spot to focus, we’re proud to offer spaces that suit everyone as part of our commitment to being a good neighbour in our local community.’
It’s not the first time McDonald’s has introduced measures to keep its younger customers in check.
Some UK branches – including one in Wrexham, North Wales – play classical music in the evenings to deter rowdy teenagers from hanging around for hours inside.
The chain has also experimented with turning off WiFi to ward off teenagers and antisocial behaviour.
McDonald’s restaurants seems to be a spot that many young people gravitate to after a certain time. It has decent-priced food, shelter, and a bathroom – what more could you want?
While many young people are perfectly well-behaved, many branches seem keen to head off disruption before it starts.
So, if you’re after a double cheeseburger and a bit of peace and quiet, you might want to give the Manchester branch a chance.
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