Terry Eagle started his career in Catford in 1976. Five decades on, he’s raised £150k for charity, donated dozens of Christmas tree and received three awards from Parliament
You’d be hard pressed to find many people who are still working for the same company as they did when they were a teenager. But, South London man Terry Eagle has done just that, having recently celebrated 50 years with McDonald’s.
The 65-year-old became a part-time crew member in 1976, just two years after the fast food chain launched its first UK restaurant in Woolwich. He greeted customers, manned the till, and put together orders in the Catford branch for four years before getting promoted to manager at just 19.
Describing himself as ‘hooked’, Terry successfully applied to be a franchisee and opened his restaurant in Camberwell. Fast forward five decades, the Golden Arches veteran now owns and operates six McDonald’s across South London, including Eltham and Sydenham.
He said: “I am so proud to be celebrating 50 years with McDonald’s UK. Starting out as a crew member, I never could have imagined the journey ahead of me. For me, business has always been about more than just the numbers, it’s about people.”
Throughout his career, Terry has shown immense commitment to not only the job but the community around him. He’s an advocate for employing people with disabilities, works with local police to reduce crime, and has recently partnered with charity Spiral to help young people transition into the workforce.
The businessman has been given a commendation from the Metropolitan Police and received three Parliamentary awards for his efforts. He’s also raised over £150,000 for Ronald McDonald House UK, which provides free accommodation to families of hospitalised children.
Terry is particularly involved with his local Camberwell House, annually donating Christmas trees and toys for the families staying at the House. “Helping my crew grow, supporting incredible youth initiatives, raising funds for Ronald McDonald House, and giving back to the local community, is what truly drives me every single day,” he said.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank my incredible team. This achievement reflects the continuous support I have received, and I couldn’t have had this amazing career without them.”
Terry’s team surprised him with a 50th anniversary party in July, decking out the Brixton branch out with decorations, balloons, a custom England shirt and cake. Terry wore a tie gifted to him by Fred Turner, the former CEO of McDonald’s US.
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