McDonald’s is one of the largest and most recognizable fast food chains in the world. Founded in 1940 by Richard and Maurice McDonald in San Bernardino, California, the company revolutionized the fast food industry with its focus on standardized preparation and speed of service. Over the years, McDonald’s expanded globally, becoming a symbol of fast food culture and convenience across the globe. As of 2024, McDonald’s operates over 39,000 outlets in more than 100 countries, serving millions of customers daily.
The brand is best known for its iconic menu items like the Big Mac, McNuggets, and its breakfast menu. McDonald’s success is attributed to its consistency, strong franchise model, and innovation in adapting to local markets. With a focus on quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction, McDonald’s continues to dominate the fast food market and remains a global leader in the industry.
CEO and Founder of McDonald’s
Although McDonald’s was originally founded by Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940, it was Ray Kroc who transformed the business into the global giant it is today. Kroc, a milkshake machine salesman, partnered with the McDonald brothers in 1954, seeing immense potential in their innovative fast food concept. In 1961, Kroc bought the company from the brothers and expanded it aggressively through a franchising model, which laid the foundation for McDonald’s worldwide success. Today, McDonald’s is led by Chris Kempczinski, who became the CEO in 2019. Under Kempczinski’s leadership, McDonald’s has continued to innovate, embracing technology and sustainability initiatives to remain relevant in a changing market.
List of Top Companies Under McDonald’s
McDonald’s operates a variety of subsidiaries and partnerships that help expand its reach in various sectors beyond traditional fast food. Below is a list of the top companies and ventures associated with McDonald’s:
| Company Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| McDonald’s Corporation | 1940 (Founded) | $195 Billion | Fast Food Restaurant |
| McDonald’s Ventures | Various | $5 Billion | Investments in Food & Tech |
| Donatos Pizza (Partnership) | 2003 (Acquired, sold in 2005) | Valuation unknown | Pizza Chain (Partnership ended) |
| Chipotle (Former Stake) | 1998 (Initial Investment, sold in 2006) | N/A | Fast Casual Dining (Previously held stake) |
| Boston Market (Former Stake) | 2000 (Acquired, sold in 2007) | N/A | Fast Casual Dining |
| RedBox (Former Stake) | 2002 (Initial Investment, sold in 2009) | N/A | DVD Rental & Entertainment |
| Auntie Anne's (Partnership) | Various | N/A | Pretzel Franchise (Franchise operated at some McDonald’s locations) |
FAQs About McDonald’s
Q1: When was McDonald’s founded, and by whom?
A: McDonald’s was founded in 1940 by Richard and Maurice McDonald in San Bernardino, California. Ray Kroc later joined the company in 1954 and expanded it globally.
Q2: Who is the current CEO of McDonald’s?
A: Chris Kempczinski is the current CEO of McDonald’s, having taken the role in November 2019.
Q3: How many McDonald’s locations are there worldwide?
A: As of 2024, McDonald’s operates more than 39,000 restaurants across over 100 countries worldwide.
Q4: What are McDonald’s most popular menu items?
A: Some of McDonald’s most iconic and popular menu items include the Big Mac, McNuggets, Egg McMuffin, and the Quarter Pounder.
