Matthew Cottrell Opened New Oakland McDonald's Restaurant

The new 3,655-square-foot location represents a $2 million investment by the franchisee.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Openings & Closings

A modern, minimalist restaurant exterior with glass walls glowing with warm interior light against a blue-toned urban evening sky. — Franchisee Matthew Cottrell has opened a new restaurant in Oakland, representing a $2 million investment in the local community as part of his regional business expansion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Franchisee Matthew Cottrell has opened a new ground-up McDonald's restaurant in Oakland. This latest location is part of a portfolio that now spans 12 restaurants across New Jersey and New York.

Why it matters

Cottrell believes that maintaining a stable workforce is the key to achieving long-term business growth. He currently manages more than 600 employees across his various franchise locations.

The new Oakland facility measures 3,655 square feet and required a $2 million investment. Statewide, McDonald's locations support 19,000 jobs and contribute $1.5 billion to New Jersey's annual GDP.

The players

Matthew Cottrell

He is an owner-operator who manages 12 McDonald's restaurants across New Jersey and New York.

Paul Cottrell

He is a veteran McDonald's owner-operator who began his career with the company in 1964.

The details

McDonald's maintains ownership of the land and building, while the franchisee handles all operational costs and equipment expenses. Cottrell manages his expansive operations by utilizing specialized staff for technology, training, and district management.

1964: Paul Cottrell began his career working at McDonald's.
1994: Paul Cottrell officially became an approved owner-operator.
2019: Matthew Cottrell purchased the restaurants from his parents.
Spring 2025: Cottrell received the offer for the new Oakland site.
2028: Planned knockdown rebuild of the Parsippany location.

Market Landscape

This opening follows the established pattern set by the McDonald's franchise operational model, which requires the parent company to hold real estate while franchisees manage day-to-day operations. The move strengthens Cottrell's position within the regional market as he scales his multi-unit portfolio.

Local customers will gain access to a new facility, though pricing and menu availability remain consistent with standard corporate policies. The expansion adds to the 19,000 jobs already supported by the chain within the state.

The takeaway

Franchise growth often depends on the ability of operators to scale management systems across multiple locations. Maintaining staff stability remains a priority for operators looking to sustain business growth in competitive markets.