UNDER the golden arches on Victoria Ave the "M" shone brighter for Wanganui's McDonald's and McCafe when it was named the group's Restaurant of the Year 2006 with Hamish Andersen recognised as Outstanding Restaurant Manager for 2006.
Franchisees John and Sonya Warder moved to Wanganui in October 2003 after selling all
their worldly possessions to buy into the McDonald's chain.
They took a risk and worked hands-on to make their restaurant work.
In June last year the Warders led the way and pioneered the new McCafe look and layout.
The restaurant's popularity grew, and its success in both sales and customer service was recognised by McDonald's.
"It was always my goal to be a franchisee and McDonald's gives you the opportunity to grow.
"And when you're back's against the wall, you work harder." The Warders attributed the restaurant's success to their 100 part-time and full-time staff.
"People are a focus for us and we are continually developing our team.
"It's a privilege to employ so many people and satisfying to watch the crew develop important work and management skills they can use for the rest of their lives."
Mr Andersen, 26, joined McDonald's Wanganui two and a-half years ago.
"I expect Hamish will eventually go on to be a franchisee."
Mr Warder started on the McDonald's ladder as a 15-year-old part-time crew person on Auckland's North Shore in 1990.
He was promoted through the ranks over the next few years to the position of restaurant manager, where he was recognised locally and nationally and named Outstanding Restaurant Manager of the Year twice.
"If you work really hard when you're young, everything will take care of itself when you get older."
