AFTER years of local lobbying, a fast food chain promising “better” burgers is about to hit Griffith.
A relentless social media campaign has seen locals petitioning for a Hungry Jack’s store in the city since 2009.
Hungry Jack’s management confirmed this week a new store has been earmarked for Griffith, with construction likely to begin in the coming months.
“Hungry Jack’s is in the process of investigating a Griffith restaurant,” a Hungry Jack’s spokeswoman said.
“We expect to have an application before council in the near future.”
It is understood the store is likely to be built at the former KFC site on Jondaryan Avenue and could open in December.
The owner of the site and Hungry Jack’s management are expected to come to an agreement in the coming weeks.
Council tourism and economic development manager Greg Lawrence said the new business was “great news” for the city.
“To have such an organisation commit to investing in our city sends a clear message that Griffith is going places,” Mr Lawrence said.
“Organisations like this one don’t invest in places lightly and this shows that things are on the move in Griffith.
“From an employment point of view this is fantastic news because it will provide great opportunities for part-time and full-time positions.”
Mr Lawrence said the new store would be particularly beneficial for young people beginning their careers because it would give them a head start in training and experience.
But not everybody is happy about the imminent arrival, which will join Griffith’s three existing multinational fast food stores.
Local dietitian Monique Cusack said fast food outlets often served food and drink that was high in fat, sugar and salt, which did not meet dietary recommendations.
“With regular consumption of these foods we often see the expansion of waistlines along with the development of diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and high blood pressure,” Ms Cusack said.
“We should aim to limit take-away meals to no more than once per week and if you are getting take-away, try to choose just one item such as a wrap with lots of salad, rather than adding the chips and soft drink that you would normally get in a meal.
“Regardless of the number of fast food outlets, we all need to take charge of our own health and the health of our children – it’s about making smart choices, not easy choices.”