Brian Jeffrey
Recently, McDonald’s shared on its Facebook page that it would be shutting down its Ben Thanh location at 2-2A Tran Hung Dao, Pham Ngu Lao ward, District 1, HCM City. This outlet was one of the brand’s pioneers in Vietnam.
In a heartfelt announcement, McDonald’s confirmed that the Ben Thanh store will close at 2 AM on September 19, 2024, marking the end of a decade of service and memories.
McDonald’s first ventured into Vietnam in February 2014, opening its initial outlet at 2-6 Bis Dien Bien Phu, Da Kao ward, District 1, which also functions as McDonald’s Vietnam headquarters. At that time, the company had ambitious plans to launch 100 locations over a decade.
However, a decade later, McDonald’s has established just 36 outlets across several regions including Hanoi, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Khanh Hoa, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and HCMC. With the closure of the Ben Thanh branch, the total number of stores in Vietnam has now decreased to 35, with 17 situated in HCM City.
The Ben Thanh outlet, which operated around the clock, was located on Tran Hung Dao street, close to the famous Ben Thanh Market. This spacious three-floor location had an area of 660 square meters and could accommodate approximately 260 guests, making it a favored gathering spot in the vibrant heart of HCMC.
While McDonald’s hasn’t disclosed the precise reasons for closing this key location, many speculate that the soaring rental costs in downtown HCM City played a significant role in this decision.
Furthermore, in related news, Starbucks also announced the closure of its Reserve store on Han Thuyen Street in Ben Nghe ward, District 1, effective August 26.
