McDo looks forward to 64

Golden Arches Development Corp. (GADC), which has held the franchise to operate the McDonald’s brand in the Philippines for the past 44 years, is now looking to expand and grow the American restaurant in the country for another 20 years, with GADC president and CEO Kenneth Yang (who is turning 60) taking a more public role even as his father, GADC chairman and founder George Yang enjoys a more relaxed role at 86 years “young.”

- MARIANNE GO

George, Kenneth reveals, continues to coach him and still goes to the office everyday, “something that will never change” if his father can help it. Kenneth and his team regularly consult and update George, who shares his wisdom and past experiences. This helps Kenneth and the rest of the management team deal with any situation that they encounter.

George, in fact, last Friday appeared ready to dance up a storm in his blue suede shoes and snazzy suit, with the trademark red and yellow McDonald’s shirt, as GADC formally announced the renewal of its franchise agreement with Chicago-based McDonald’s Corp.

However, George showed that he is ready to relinquish the limelight to Kenneth who took center stage – alongside host and former McDonald’s crew member Rico Hizon – in announcing, during a simulcast livestream and press conference, the 20-year franchise renewal to media guests in Quezon City, Cebu and Davao.

It was refreshing and indeed a proud moment for George to sit quietly and allow Kenneth to take a more public role after Kenneth has most capably steered the company behind the scenes since 2005 while leaving most of the public events and hosting, and promotion to his father who is also well-known for his singing prowess, and even has a couple of CD records that he has given to family and friends.