McVeggie burger trial underway at four Richmond locations

Starting Tuesday (March 18), McDonald's Canada will be testing a new vegetarian option, the McVeggie burger, at four locations in Richmond.

Bill Chao, who owns six of Richmond's eight McDonald's franchisees, said he's "excited" to try the new vegetarian burger option at his locations.

"It's a response to the diverse tastes people are looking for these days," Chao explained to the Richmond News.

The non-meat burger contains broccoli, zucchini, green beans, green peas, soy, carrots, and corn. The sesame seed baguette holds the breaded burger, which is topped with lettuce and a mayo-style sauce.

There is also a Spicy Habanero McVeggie available.

It will be tested between March 18 and April 14. Chao added that McDonald's Canada will then review consumer feedback before deciding whether or not to keep it.

"Meanwhile, I'm excited to test it," he continued.

Other communities in British Columbia where the plant-based burger will be tested include Richmond, Langley, and Surrey.

It will also be available throughout the trial period in New Brunswick and Ontario.

There are four locations in Richmond: No. 2 Road at Blundell, Alderbridge Way, Sweden Way, and Ironwood Mall.

According to Jeff Anderson, senior manager of culinary innovation at McDonald's Canada, while vegetarian burgers have been offered in other countries, this is the first time McDonald's is serving them in Canada.

"We're always looking for new opportunities to innovate and build on our menu, and the McVeggie will allow even more guests to enjoy that delicious McDonald's flavor Canadians know and love," said the executive.

Career in the fast-food industry

Chao has been with McDonald's for 43 years, beginning as a "crew" part-time employment while attending Langara College.

He then progressed to management and mid-management.

"I just found it fit into my lifestyle," he said of working for McDonald's.

About 20 years ago, he was overseeing all of the McDonald's stores in Saskatchewan and began to consider becoming an owner/operator.

In the end, he acquired six franchises in his hometown of Richmond.

McDonald's has also included his family. He met his wife while working there 42 years ago, and they have been married 35 years. Their kid has been working for him for fifteen years.