| McDonald's Corporation primarily franchises and operates McDonald's restaurants in the food service industry. These restaurants serve a varied, yet limited, value-priced menu in more than 100 countries around the world. The Company also has a minority ownership interest in United Kingdom-based Pret A Manger. The Company owned Boston Market prior to its sale in August 2007. During the year ended December 31, 2006, the Company disposed of its investment in Chipotle Mexican Grill (Chipotle). All restaurants are operated either by the Company, by independent entrepreneurs under the terms of conventional franchise arrangements (franchisees), or by affiliates and developmental licensees operating under license agreements. During the year ended December 31, 2007, McDonald's Corporation sold its businesses in Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and 13 other countries in Latin America, and the Caribbean to a developmental licensee organization. |
