McDonald’s Canada is testing out a new vegetarian option – the McVeggie burger – starting Tuesday (March 18) and four locations in Richmond will be test sites for this non-meat based meal.
Bill Chao, who owns six of the eight McDonald’s franchises in Richmond, said he’s “excited” to test this new vegetarian burger option at his restaurants.
“It’s a response to diverse tastes people are looking for these days,” Chao told the Richmond News.
The non-meat burger is made with broccoli, zucchini, green beans, green peas, soy, carrot and corn. The breaded burger is topped with lettuce and a mayo-style sauce and is served on a sesame seed bun.
There’s also a Spicy Habanero McVeggie available.
It will be tested from March 18 to April 14. McDonald's Canada will then look at consumer feedback, after which time they will decide whether to keep it or not, Chao explained.
“Meanwhile, I’m excited to test it,” he added.
Richmond, Langley and Surrey are the other communities in B.C. where the plant-based burger will be tested.
It will also be available during this trial run in New Brunswick and Ontario.
The four locations in Richmond are No. 2 Road at Blundell, Alderbridge Way, Sweden Way and Ironwood Mall.
Vegetarian burgers have been available in other countries, but this is the first time McDonald's is offering it in Canada, explained Jeff Anderson, senior manager of culinary innovation at McDonald’s Canada
“We’re always looking for new opportunities to innovate and build on our menu, and the McVeggie will give even more guests the opportunity to enjoy that delicious McDonald’s flavour Canadians know and love,” he added.
Career spent at fast-food restaurants
Chao has been with McDonald’s for 43 years, starting as "crew" as a part-time job while going to Langara College.
He then moved into management and mid-management.
"I just found it fit into my lifestyle," he said about working at McDonald's.
About 20 years ago, he was managing all the McDonald’s locations in Saskatchewan, and he started thinking of taking over as an owner/operator.
In the end, he ended up owning six franchises in his hometown of Richmond.
McDonald’s has also involved his family. He met his wife while working there 42 years ago and they’ve been married for 35 years. Their son has been working for him for 15 years.
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