There was a vigorous response to the question we posed on Facebook about whether or not Oban should encourage fast-food chains such as Greggs and McDonald’s to the town. James Galbraith declaimed: ‘When you invite chains into the town you immediately send the profits out of the area. It’s a great way to kill a town. If you think there’s a market for pizza delivery in the town, then open a pizza shop – don’t spaff your money on a dominos franchise.’
Keith Miller posted: ‘I’m not massively impressed with the few ‘nationals’ from the food and drink sector we already have established in the town – Wetherspoons, Costa and Subway. Most of the local independents are head and shoulders above them in terms of quality.’
Derek Grier argued: ‘I personally think it’s a mute point whether a franchise opens up or not. The point of a franchise is that it’s usually owned by a local, someone who’s identified a need and created a business plan. Sourced capital and employed locals.’