Fast-food giant McDonald's has announced plans to open 10,000 new restaurants globally by the end of 2027, marking a significant period of expansion for the company. This move is expected to drive global sales and profitability, with a particular focus on international markets, including China. The expansion will bring the total number of McDonald's restaurants to approximately 50,000 worldwide.
In addition to the physical expansion, McDonald's is also focusing on enhancing its digital offerings. The company has announced a partnership with Google Cloud to accelerate automated services, aiming to improve food quality and customer experience. This digital transformation is part of McDonald's strategy to stay competitive in the fast-paced food industry.
Alongside the expansion and digital enhancements, McDonald's is also planning to update its menu. By 2026, the company aims to introduce burgers with softer buns and more Big Mac sauce in nearly all markets. The company is also planning to expand its chicken offerings globally, reflecting the growing consumer preference for poultry products.
Despite a slight decline in US traffic, McDonald's reported a nearly 9% increase in same-store sales globally in the third quarter. This resilience is attributed to the company's affordable menu items and aggressive marketing campaigns. McDonald's also aims to grow its loyalty members from 150 million to 250 million by 2027, further driving customer engagement and sales.
The announcement of McDonald's expansion comes as other major food chains, such as Starbucks, also reveal plans for significant growth. Starbucks has announced plans to open 17,000 stores by 2030, indicating a trend of rapid expansion within the fast-food industry.