New McDonald's breaks ground in Selbyville

Carl M. Freeman Companies recently announced the finalization of a deal to bring McDonald’s to Bayside Marketplace, with a restaurant under construction. A groundbreaking ceremony took place Jan.13 for the new restaurant to be owned and operated by The Meoli Companies. The restaurant will be at 36218 Lighthouse Road, Selbyville, west of Fenwick on Route 54.

On hand to break ground was Michael Meoli, owner of The Meoli Companies, along with team members, representatives from the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce, and supporters from the general public. “The Meoli family of McDonald’s restaurants has proudly served the residents of Sussex County for nearly 25 years. We’re thrilled at the opportunity to become a part of the Fenwick Island and Bayside community,” said Meoli.

McDonald's is the world's leading global food service retailer, with more than 35,000 locations serving approximately 70 million customers in more than 100 countries each day. More than 80 percent of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local businessmen and women.

At approximately 4,500 square feet, the restaurant will feature the latest prototype contemporary arcade-style restaurant which features brick and stone façade offering visual interest with varying wall depths, textures and colors.

Also, the new restaurant will include sustainable features such as LED lighting throughout, a bike rack, white reflective roofing and high-efficiency equipment, and it will be the Eastern Shore’s first McDonald’s featuring the new fast forward drive-thru service. When this McDonald’s opens in the spring, 50 to 70 local residents are expected to be employed.

The Meoli Companies has owned and operated six McDonald’s restaurants in Delaware. The firm recently acquired seven McDonald’s restaurants from The Hoff Companies. All the restaurants are on the Delmarva Peninsula in Maryland and Delaware.

“We are pleased to welcome our newest member, The Meoli Companies, to the chamber and wish them success in their newest endeavor with the McDonald’s of Fenwick,” said Kristie Maravalli, executive director of the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about Carl M. Freeman Companies and its diverse interests, visit www.freemancompanies.com or call 240-453-3000.

For more information on The Meoli Companies, go to www.meolicompanies.com.