McDonald's Corporation, commonly known as McDonald's, is a global fast-food restaurant chain that has become an iconic symbol of the fast-food industry. The company was founded on April 15, 1955, by Ray Kroc in Des Plaines, Illinois, USA. Kroc's vision was to create a fast-food concept that offered consistent quality, fast service, and affordable prices.
McDonald's operates over 38,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries, serving millions of customers each day. The company's primary business is the sale of fast-food items such as burgers, fries, chicken products, salads, and beverages. McDonald's is known for its standardized menu, which includes popular items like the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, and Chicken McNuggets.
The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol "MCD." It is a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 Index. McDonald's has a strong presence in the global market and is one of the world's largest fast-food chains by revenue and number of locations.
Something of note about McDonald's is its franchise model. The majority of McDonald's restaurants are owned and operated by independent franchisees who pay fees and royalties to the company. This franchise system has been a key driver of McDonald's global expansion and has allowed the brand to establish a wide footprint in different countries and cultures.
The most notable item on their menu would be the Big Mac. Introduced in 1967, the Big Mac has become an iconic burger and a symbol of McDonald's brand worldwide. It consists of two beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, and onions, all served on a sesame seed bun. The Big Mac's unique combination of ingredients and its signature "two all-beef patties" jingle have made it one of the most recognized and bestselling burgers in the world.
In recent years, McDonald's has also been focusing on enhancing its menu to cater to changing consumer preferences. The company has introduced healthier options, such as salads, fruit, and yogurt, to provide customers with more choices. Additionally, McDonald's has been investing in technology to improve the customer experience, with initiatives like self-service kiosks, mobile ordering, and delivery services.
Looking ahead, McDonald's plans to continue its global expansion, especially in emerging markets. The company aims to leverage its strong brand and adapt to evolving consumer trends to remain a leader in the competitive fast-food industry. McDonald's also seeks to enhance sustainability practices, including waste reduction, energy efficiency, and responsible sourcing, to align with growing consumer expectations.