McDonald’s: From a Small Drive-In to a Global Brand
McDonald’s, the global fast-food giant, had humble beginnings. Brothers Richard “Dick” and Maurice “Mac” McDonald established the original drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino, California, in 1940. Its success led them to franchise their restaurant system. In 1948, they introduced the Speedee Service System, streamlining their operations to produce hamburgers, shakes, and fries more quickly and at lower cost.
The company underwent significant changes after Ray Kroc joined. Originally a milkshake machine salesman, Kroc became the brothers’ franchise agent and opened his own McDonald’s restaurant in Des Plaines, Illinois, in 1955. He eventually purchased the rights to McDonald’s for $2.7 million in 1961.
Unlike the founders, Kroc aimed for global expansion. Working with businessman Harry J. Sonneborn, he developed a business model in which the company purchased land and buildings, then leased them to franchisees, thereby creating a steady revenue stream. That strategy helped turn McDonald’s into a global brand with locations in over 100 countries, giving customers a taste of the American lifestyle.
Hyundong Lee Staff Reporter junior/1773286912/1613367831
1. Who established the original McDonald's drive-in restaurant?
2. What system helped produce burgers quickly?
3. When did Ray Kroc purchase the rights?
4. How many countries currently have McDonald's locations?
1. Do you prefer fast food or homemade meals?
2. Why did McDonald's become a global symbol?
3. Where do you usually go to eat burgers?
4. What makes a business successful in other countries?
McDonald’s, the global fast-food giant, had humble beginnings. Brothers Richard “Dick” and Maurice “Mac” McDonald established the original drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino, California, in 1940. Its success led them to franchise their restaurant system. In 1948, they introduced the Speedee Service System, streamlining their operations to produce hamburgers, shakes, and fries more quickly and at lower cost.
