History of McDonald’s
McDonald's began in 1940 as a small drive-in restaurant in San Bernardino, California, founded by
brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald. Initially, they offered a wide menu, but in 1948 they
introduced the "Speedee Service System," focusing on burgers, fries, and beverages prepared quickly
and efficiently. This streamlined approach revolutionized fast food and laid the foundation for
their future growth.
In 1954, businessman Ray Kroc discovered the McDonald brothers'
restaurant and saw its potential. He joined the company as a franchise agent and opened the first
McDonald’s franchise in Des Plaines, Illinois, in 1955. Kroc eventually bought exclusive rights to
the McDonald’s name and expanded aggressively, transforming the brand into a national and then
global presence. Under his leadership, McDonald’s emphasized consistency, efficiency, and
cleanliness across all locations.
Throughout the decades, McDonald’s continued to grow,
becoming one of the world’s most recognized brands. It adapted to different markets by offering
localized menu items and investing in modern technology, such as digital ordering and delivery.
Despite facing criticism over health concerns and environmental issues, McDonald's has remained a
dominant player in the fast-food industry by continuously evolving and staying relevant to changing
consumer preferences.