McDonald's plans to add 1,900 jobs in Alberta with revamped service model

McDonald's is hiring up to 1,900 people in Alberta, as it rolls out self-serve kiosks, customizable burgersand table serviceat its fast-food restaurants.

The changes to the traditional counter-service format are "transforming the guest experience and creating additional jobs," said Shelly Hansen, the chain's regional vice-president for Western Canada, in a release on Thursday.

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McDonald's plans to spend $200,000 to $250,000 at each of its 140restaurants inAlberta, making it the first province to transition to the new service style.

The company already has about 9,500 employees inAlberta, Hansen said.

The self-serve kiosks became a topic of discussionlast month when interimPCleader Ric McIvertweeted theAlberta government's increase to the minimum wage was leading to job losses in the food service sector.

Reaction to the tweetresurfaced today after theMcDonald's announcement including commentfrom Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi.