McDonald’s

McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE: MCD) is a US multinational fast-food chain that generates revenue through company-operated restaurants, franchise royalties, and licensing pacts. McDonald’s is the world’s largest fast-food restaurant chain, serving over 69 million customers daily in over 100 countries across 41,822 outlets (2023). McDonald’s was placed fifth in a 2023 ranking of global brands by value (~USD 191 billion). It generated USD 25.5 billion in revenue in 2023.

McDonald’s restaurants offer a broadly uniform menu, although there are geographic variations to suit local customer preferences and tastes. Its menu includes burgers, chicken sandwiches, french fries, breakfast items, salads, McNuggets, sodas, milkshakes, coffee and other hot beverages, and desserts. Around 38% of McDonald’s revenue (in 2023) was from company-operated restaurants, while ~61% was from franchised restaurants, primarily through rent and royalty fees. 

The US is McDonald’s largest market, contributing ~42% of its total revenue in 2023. McDonald’s expects capital expenditure in 2024 to be between USD 2.5 billion and USD 2.7 billion, more than half of which will be directed toward new restaurant unit expansion across the US and International Operated Markets. Globally, the company expects to open around 2,100 restaurants in 2024. The company plans to expand its footprint to 50,000+ restaurants by the end of 2027. McDonald’s has committed to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.