Ryhope McDonald’s restaurant reopens after food distribution blocked by animal rights activists

The restaurant, on Ryhope Road in Sunderland, had no option but to close to the public on Monday, May 24 after Animal Rebellion blocked the fast-food chain’s distribution centres across the country.

Now on Tuesday, May 25, the restaurant is back open and operating to normal hours.

The disruption meant that many restaurants were unable to receive stock with a notice on the restaurant saying: “Due to animal protesters blockading our distribution centres, we have been unable to receive deliveries.

"Until this situation is resolved and we receive our required stock, the restaurant has no alternative but to close.

"We apologise to our customers for the disruption caused by these protests and hope to resume normal services as soon as possible.”

Animal Rebellion used vehicles and bamboo structures to prevent lorries from leaving depots in Hemel Hempstead, Basingstoke, Coventry and Heywood in Greater Manchester on Saturday, May 22.

The group was demanding that McDonald’s commit to becoming fully plant-based by 2025 and said the action aimed to call out the animal agriculture industry for its part in the global climate crisis.

Hampshire Police have since charged eight people with aggravated trespass following the protests, which took place on Saturday, May 22 and Sunday, May 23.

Animal Rebellion claim that around 100 people took part in the protests and that the action disrupted an estimated 1,900 lorries.

A McDonald’s spokesperson has confirmed that their delivery operation is now fully back up and running.

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