ANDY Gibson had just left education when he got his first job at McDonalds.

While some would scour at the prospect of working for a fast food chain for a living, Andy, from Garnethill, has made himself an empire in the 32 years since first joining the multi-billion dollar company.

Today, the 55-year-old owns 15 McDonald's franchises, with around 1300 employees.

Andy said: “When I finished education in 1982, McDonalds was my first employer. I was an employee for just short of 20 years.

“The first 12 years of which were in London, where I was in charge of the central London restaurants. I then came up to Scotland and was regional manager.

"In 2002, I had the opportunity to become a franchisee.

“I started with three franchises in Parkhead, London Road and Easterhouse and it has grown from there.”

The businessman has gone on to secure restaurants throughout Glasgow and Ayrshire, and manages a 1300 strong team, including three area managers who, like him, have been promoted through the McDonald's ranks.

In the 30 years since first entering the company, various changes have taken place.

He explained: “As the business has got bigger, we’re probably more systematic, more comprehensive. We’re always trying to keep up and refresh ourselves.

“It’s really important from a customer's point of view that we’re fresh and convenient. We’re able to add more digital elements to our experience now so we’re keeping up with the times.

“People can order from the kiosk, we’ve got tablets for customers to go on the internet, the food is freshly prepared when the order is placed and we can now do table service.”

This new ‘digital’ McDonald’s has already taken hold at six of Andy’s franchises, with the aim of having them all up and running in the same way by 2018.

McDonalds Parkhead, in the east end, is one of the first to undergo the make over.

“Technology has a huge role to play in all walks of life, including our customers’ eating out experience, so the new technology we’ve introduced recognises the way people live their lives today.

“The addition of table service enables customers to order at the self-order kiosk and then sit down at a designated zone to get served. From mums coming in with their kids, to people having a working lunch, I expect the feedback to be positive.”

As part of Andy’s role as franchisee, he is keen to give back to the communities where his businesses are based.

Just a few of the organisations benefitting from donations such as football kits is Partick Thistle FC, Glasgow Girls FC and Bonnyton Thistle FC in Ayrshire.

“We also sponsor the Community Champion awards, which recognises people who have had a positive influence on the local community and as well as various charities. A portion of our turnover goes towards the Ronald McDonald charity.”

Andy’s Easterhouse restaurant was awarded Football Restaurant of the year as a result of all of the support they give to local grassroots clubs in the Glasgow area including Glasgow Girls FC.