PUBLIC COMPANYFranchises and operates quick-service restaurants serving burgers, breakfast items, chicken and beverages.
McDonald’s earns income from rent, royalties and fees paid by franchisees as well as sales at restaurants it runs itself. Customers are diners in many countries. The stock is listed on the NYSE, and its annual report gives a full description of the business, its risks and its audited financial statements. The filings include a description of the real estate it owns or leases, which is worth reading to understand its business model.
McDonald’s is the world’s largest fast food restaurant chain. Most of its locations are owned and run by independent franchisees, not by the company itself.
McDonald’s earns rent and fees from franchisees along with a share of sales, plus income from the restaurants it owns. Because it owns much of the land and buildings, it works partly like a real estate company.
Customers watch prices closely, so value deals matter. Food costs, wages and changing tastes shape results. The franchise model keeps the company asset light, but it relies on franchisees staying healthy.
What is a franchise?
A business owner pays to use a brand and its system.
Why does it own real estate?
Rent from franchisees is a steady income stream.
What is same store sales?
Sales growth from restaurants open for at least a year.
Open the latest annual report, called a 10-K, and look at franchise revenue versus company owned revenue, same store sales and debt. Reading the company in its own words is the best way to see how it really works.
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Official reports for McDonald’s Corporation are on the SEC site. Open the filings for MCD. Public company facts here come from official filings and the company itself.
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Claim this profile See company spotlightsProfile written by Positive Stocks from public information, last checked in October 2026. Details change, so confirm with the company and its filings. This is for education only. It is not a recommendation to buy or sell anything. Investing involves risk, including loss of money.