A FAMOUS American fast-food chain has opened the firm's first ever drive-thru restaurant in the UK in Colchester.
Wendy’s fast-food restaurant has now officially opened at Northern Gateway Leisure Park, off junction 28 of the A12 in Colchester.
It opened its doors to eager customers on Tuesday at 10.30am.
The new restaurant has created 60 new jobs for people in the area, with one member of staff who trained in Stratford saying the company offered her “lots of opportunities for growth.”
It is the first drive-thru of its kind in the UK since the move to the UK in 2021.
The first customer was Sally Langley, from Colchester, who has been keeping an eye on the development for a few months.
She said: "My other half lived in America for several years and said they do the best burgers.
"I’m a vegetarian so am interested to see what the vegetarian options are like.
"I got here at 9.25am, luckily I am off work today so I wouldn't miss the opening.
"I have been excited about it for a few months and have been watching as the building works progress.
"It’s nice to get something different for Colchester."
The company was founded in 1969 by Dave Thomas in Columbus, Ohio and is famous for its square burgers.
Diners can also try an exclusive range of items tailored especially to Brits including the Avocado Chicken Club and Curry Bean Burger.
A Wendy’s spokesman said: “Wendy’s is excited to open the first UK company-owned drive-thru in Colchester.
"Since returning to the UK, our focus has always been on quality since day one.
"Wendy’s does not cut corners, a commitment illustrated by our iconic square hamburgers.
"Wendy’s fans can expect all the signature menu items they know and love, including the Baconator®, Dave’s Double™ (named after our Founder!), the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, and of course, the classic Frosty® dessert.”
Wendy's is part of the new £65 million Northern Gateway complex, located near Colchester United's stadium.
Once complete, the development will boast a Travelodge hotel, Greggs and Hollywood Bowl bowling alley.
There will also be a Puttstars indoor golf centre, a Jump Street centre, a cinema and seven restaurants.
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