FERRISBURGH, Vt. (WCAX) – Big Mac lovers in Addison County aren’t lovin’ it. The McDonald’s in Ferrisburgh is shutting its doors for good on Friday, leaving staff and customers to find other options.
The McDonald’s off Route 7 in Ferrisburgh is a popular spot, the only fast-food drive-through for miles.
But without much warning, the franchise is turning off the fryers and closing its doors after only a decade in business.
Staff say that management decided not to renew its lease inside the Jiffy Mart.
The news came as a surprise to many we spoke to. “I didn’t realize it was closing until you just told me,” said local resident Jason Hatch.
For the many regular customers, it’s an inconvenient loss. “I’m coming from Barre, Montpelier area and I’m going to Vergennes for work, so this is the only stop on the way pretty much,” said one customer.
“It’s a lot easier to just come off the main highway, pull in here, get some food, and get back on your way,” said Chris Jones, a truck driver.
Staff we spoke to say that they only heard about the news last week and were sad to hear it. McDonald’s corporate office did not respond to calls for comment.
Some customers speculate it could be related to staffing. “I heard it through the window when I came through the drive-through a few nights ago. We couldn’t use the counter, we had to use the drive-through because only two people was working,” said local resident Victor Chaput.
Ferrsiburgh’s town clerk says whatever business fills the space will have to go before the zoning board for approval.