MCDONALDS Business Summary

McDonald’s Corporation (MCD) operates a high-margin business model primarily driven by franchising, generating approximately 61% of its revenue from royalties and rent as a major global real estate owner, while the remaining 39% stems from company-operated restaurant sales. The company’s operations are categorized into three primary segments: the United States (accounting for 41% of systemwide sales), International Operated Markets (34%), and International Developmental Licensed Markets (25%). As of February 2026, McDonald’s maintains its position as the dominant global leader in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry, leveraging its "Accelerating the Arches" strategy to maintain a competitive edge over direct rivals such as Yum! Brands, Starbucks, Wendy's, and Domino's Pizza through massive scale, digital-first loyalty programs, and automated kitchen operations. Originally founded in 1940 by Richard and Maurice McDonald and transformed into a global powerhouse by Ray Kroc starting in 1955, the company is currently led by Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski, who has spearheaded the brand’s digital transformation since 2019. The executive leadership team includes Ian Borden as Executive Vice President and Global CFO, and Brian Rice as Executive Vice President and Global Chief Information Officer, overseeing the firm’s extensive technology stack. The company’s governance is supported by a 12-member board of directors, which recently added James D. Farley, Jr. (President and CEO of Ford Motor Company) in February 2026 to provide expertise in global brand transformation and operational modernization.