Quarterlytics / Consumer Cyclical / Restaurants / McDonald’s

McDonald’s

mcd · NYSE Consumer Cyclical
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Ticker mcd
Exchange NYSE
Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Restaurants
Employees 10,000+
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FY2017 Annual Report · McDonald’s
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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549

FORM 10-K

 ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017 
or

 TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                     to                    

Commission File Number 1-5231

McDONALD’S CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

One McDonald’s Plaza
Oak Brook, Illinois
(Address of principal executive offices)

36-2361282
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

60523
(Zip code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (630) 623-3000

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class

Common stock, $.01 par value

Name of each exchange
on which registered

New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes 

  No 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during 
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements 

  No 

for the past 90 days.  Yes 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to 
be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required 

  No 

to submit and post such files).  Yes 
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best 
of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this 

  No 

Form 10-K.  
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an 
emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "emerging growth company" in 
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
(Check one):
Large accelerated filer  

  (do not check if a smaller reporting company)        

         Accelerated filer  

Non-accelerated filer  

Smaller reporting company  
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or 
revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. 

Emerging growth company  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes 
The aggregate market value of common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 30, 2017 was $124,038,758,906.
The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock as of January 31, 2018 was 794,497,880.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Part III of this Form 10-K incorporates information by reference from the registrant’s 2018 definitive proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 120 days 
after December 31, 2017. 

  No 

 
 
 
McDONALD’S CORPORATION

INDEX

Page reference

Part I.

Part II.

Part III.

Part IV.

Item 1
Item 1A
Item 1B
Item 2
Item 3
Item 4
Additional Item Executive Officers of the Registrant

Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk Factors and Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unresolved Staff Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mine Safety Disclosures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Item 5

Item 6
Item 7
Item 7A
Item 8
Item 9
Item 9A
Item 9B

Item 10
Item 11
Item 12
Item 13
Item 14

Item 15
Item 16

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 
Securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selected Financial Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations . . . . . . . . . . . .
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters. . .
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Principal Accounting Fees and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Form 10-K Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Signatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1
3
8
8
8
9
10

11
13
14
30
30
54
54
54

54
54
54
55
55

55
57

58

Exhibits

All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.

PART I

ITEM 1. Business

McDonald’s Corporation, the registrant, together with its sub-
sidiaries, is referred to herein as the “Company.”

a. General
During 2017, there were no material changes to the Company's 
corporate structure or in its method of conducting business. The 
business is structured with segments that combine markets with 
similar characteristics and opportunities for growth. Significant 
reportable segments include the United States ("U.S."), 
International Lead Markets and High Growth Markets. In addition, 
throughout this report we present the Foundational Markets & 
Corporate segment, which includes markets in over 80 countries, 
as well as Corporate activities.

b. Financial information about segments
Segment data for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 
2015 are included in Part II, Item 8, page 47 of this Form 10-K.

c. Narrative description of business

  General

The Company operates and franchises McDonald’s restaurants, 
which serve a locally-relevant menu of quality food and beverages 
sold at various price points in more than 100 countries. 
McDonald’s global system is comprised of both Company-owned 
and franchised restaurants. McDonald’s franchised restaurants are 
owned and operated under one of the following structures - 
conventional franchise, developmental license or affiliate. The 
optimal ownership structure for an individual restaurant, trading 
area or market (country) is based on a variety of factors, including 
the availability of individuals with the entrepreneurial experience 
and financial resources, as well as the local legal and regulatory 
environment in critical areas such as property ownership and 
franchising. We continually review our mix of Company-owned and 
franchised restaurants to help optimize overall performance, with a 
goal to be approximately 95% franchised over the long term. The 
business relationship between McDonald’s and its independent 
franchisees is of fundamental importance to overall performance 
and to the McDonald’s brand. This business relationship is 
supported by an agreement that requires adherence to standards 
and policies essential to protecting our brand.

The Company is primarily a franchisor, with more than 90% of 

McDonald's restaurants currently owned and operated by 
independent franchisees. Franchising enables an individual to be 
their own employer and maintain control over all employment 
related matters, marketing and pricing decisions, while also 
benefiting from the strength of McDonald’s global brand, operating 
system and financial resources. One of the strengths of this model 
is that the expertise gained from operating Company-owned 
restaurants allows McDonald’s to improve the operations and 
success of all restaurants while innovations from franchisees can 
be tested and, when viable, efficiently implemented across 
relevant restaurants.

Directly operating McDonald’s restaurants contributes 

significantly to our ability to act as a credible franchisor. Having 
Company-owned restaurants provides Company personnel with a 
venue for restaurant operations training experience. In addition, in 
our Company-owned and operated restaurants, and in 
collaboration with franchisees, we are able to further develop and 
refine operating standards, marketing concepts and product and 
pricing strategies that will ultimately benefit McDonald’s 
restaurants.

Under a conventional franchise arrangement, the Company 

generally owns the land and building or secures a long-term lease 

for the restaurant location and the franchisee pays for equipment, 

signs, seating and décor. The Company believes that ownership of 

real estate, combined with the co-investment by franchisees, 

enables us to achieve restaurant performance levels that are 

among the highest in the industry.

Franchisees are also responsible for reinvesting capital in 

their businesses over time. In addition, to accelerate 

implementation of certain initiatives, the Company frequently co-

invests with franchisees to fund improvements to their restaurants 

or their operating systems. These investments, developed with 

input from McDonald’s with the aim of improving local business 

performance, increase the value of our brand through the 

development of modernized, more attractive and higher revenue 

generating restaurants.

The Company’s typical franchise term is 20 years. The 

Company requires franchisees to meet rigorous standards and 

generally does not work with passive investors. The business 

relationship with franchisees is designed to ensure consistency 

and high quality at all McDonald’s restaurants. Conventional 

franchisees contribute to the Company’s revenue through the 

payment of rent and royalties based upon a percent of sales, with 

specified minimum rent payments, along with initial fees paid upon 

the opening of a new restaurant or grant of a new franchise. This 

structure enables McDonald’s to generate significant levels of 

cash flow.

Under a developmental license arrangement, licensees 

provide capital for the entire business, including the real estate 

interest. The Company generally does not invest any capital under 

a developmental license arrangement. The Company receives a 

royalty based upon a percent of sales as well as initial fees upon 

the opening of a new restaurant or grant of a new license. We use 

the developmental license ownership structure in over 80 

countries with a total of approximately 6,900 restaurants. The 

largest developmental licensee operates approximately 2,200 

restaurants in 19 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

Finally, the Company also has an equity investment in a 

limited number of foreign affiliated markets, referred to as 

“affiliates.” In these markets, the Company receives a royalty 

based on a percent of sales and records its share of net results in 

Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates.  In 2017, the 

Company completed the sale of its businesses in China and Hong 

Kong, while retaining a 20% ownership in the entity that now owns 

the business. There are approximately 5,800 restaurants in foreign 

affiliated markets, the largest of which are Japan and China, 

where there are about 2,900 and 2,600 restaurants, respectively.

  Supply Chain and Quality Assurance

The Company and its franchisees purchase food, packaging, 

equipment and other goods from numerous independent 

suppliers. The Company has established and enforces high quality 

standards and product specifications. The Company has quality 

centers around the world designed to ensure that its high 

standards are consistently met. The quality assurance process not 

only involves ongoing product reviews, but also on-site supplier 

visits. A Food Safety Advisory Council, composed of the 

Company’s technical, safety and supply chain specialists, as well 

as suppliers and outside academia, provides strategic global 

leadership for all aspects of food safety. In addition, the Company 

works closely with suppliers to encourage innovation, assure best 

practices and drive continuous improvement. Leveraging scale, 

supply chain infrastructure and risk management strategies, the 

Company also collaborates with suppliers toward a goal of 

achieving competitive, predictable food and paper costs over the 

long term.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    1

 
McDONALD’S CORPORATION

INDEX

Page reference

Item 1

Item 1A

Item 1B

Item 2

Item 3

Item 4

Item 5

Item 6

Item 7

Item 7A

Item 8

Item 9

Item 9A

Item 9B

Item 10

Item 11

Item 12

Item 13

Item 14

Item 15

Item 16

Part I.

Part II.

Part III.

Part IV.

Exhibits

Business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Risk Factors and Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Unresolved Staff Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Legal Proceedings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mine Safety Disclosures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Additional Item Executive Officers of the Registrant

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity 

Securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Selected Financial Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations . . . . . . . . . . . .

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure . . . . . . . . . . . .

Controls and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Executive Compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder Matters. . .

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Principal Accounting Fees and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Form 10-K Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Signatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.

1
3
8
8
8
9
10

11
13
14
30
30
54
54
54

54
54
54
55
55

55
57

58

PART I

ITEM 1. Business

McDonald’s Corporation, the registrant, together with its sub-
sidiaries, is referred to herein as the “Company.”

a. General
During 2017, there were no material changes to the Company's 
corporate structure or in its method of conducting business. The 
business is structured with segments that combine markets with 
similar characteristics and opportunities for growth. Significant 
reportable segments include the United States ("U.S."), 
International Lead Markets and High Growth Markets. In addition, 
throughout this report we present the Foundational Markets & 
Corporate segment, which includes markets in over 80 countries, 
as well as Corporate activities.

b. Financial information about segments
Segment data for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 
2015 are included in Part II, Item 8, page 47 of this Form 10-K.

c. Narrative description of business

  General

The Company operates and franchises McDonald’s restaurants, 
which serve a locally-relevant menu of quality food and beverages 
sold at various price points in more than 100 countries. 
McDonald’s global system is comprised of both Company-owned 
and franchised restaurants. McDonald’s franchised restaurants are 
owned and operated under one of the following structures - 
conventional franchise, developmental license or affiliate. The 
optimal ownership structure for an individual restaurant, trading 
area or market (country) is based on a variety of factors, including 
the availability of individuals with the entrepreneurial experience 
and financial resources, as well as the local legal and regulatory 
environment in critical areas such as property ownership and 
franchising. We continually review our mix of Company-owned and 
franchised restaurants to help optimize overall performance, with a 
goal to be approximately 95% franchised over the long term. The 
business relationship between McDonald’s and its independent 
franchisees is of fundamental importance to overall performance 
and to the McDonald’s brand. This business relationship is 
supported by an agreement that requires adherence to standards 
and policies essential to protecting our brand.

The Company is primarily a franchisor, with more than 90% of 

McDonald's restaurants currently owned and operated by 
independent franchisees. Franchising enables an individual to be 
their own employer and maintain control over all employment 
related matters, marketing and pricing decisions, while also 
benefiting from the strength of McDonald’s global brand, operating 
system and financial resources. One of the strengths of this model 
is that the expertise gained from operating Company-owned 
restaurants allows McDonald’s to improve the operations and 
success of all restaurants while innovations from franchisees can 
be tested and, when viable, efficiently implemented across 
relevant restaurants.

Directly operating McDonald’s restaurants contributes 
significantly to our ability to act as a credible franchisor. Having 
Company-owned restaurants provides Company personnel with a 
venue for restaurant operations training experience. In addition, in 
our Company-owned and operated restaurants, and in 
collaboration with franchisees, we are able to further develop and 
refine operating standards, marketing concepts and product and 
pricing strategies that will ultimately benefit McDonald’s 
restaurants.

Under a conventional franchise arrangement, the Company 

generally owns the land and building or secures a long-term lease 
for the restaurant location and the franchisee pays for equipment, 
signs, seating and décor. The Company believes that ownership of 
real estate, combined with the co-investment by franchisees, 
enables us to achieve restaurant performance levels that are 
among the highest in the industry.

Franchisees are also responsible for reinvesting capital in 

their businesses over time. In addition, to accelerate 
implementation of certain initiatives, the Company frequently co-
invests with franchisees to fund improvements to their restaurants 
or their operating systems. These investments, developed with 
input from McDonald’s with the aim of improving local business 
performance, increase the value of our brand through the 
development of modernized, more attractive and higher revenue 
generating restaurants.

The Company’s typical franchise term is 20 years. The 
Company requires franchisees to meet rigorous standards and 
generally does not work with passive investors. The business 
relationship with franchisees is designed to ensure consistency 
and high quality at all McDonald’s restaurants. Conventional 
franchisees contribute to the Company’s revenue through the 
payment of rent and royalties based upon a percent of sales, with 
specified minimum rent payments, along with initial fees paid upon 
the opening of a new restaurant or grant of a new franchise. This 
structure enables McDonald’s to generate significant levels of 
cash flow.

Under a developmental license arrangement, licensees 
provide capital for the entire business, including the real estate 
interest. The Company generally does not invest any capital under 
a developmental license arrangement. The Company receives a 
royalty based upon a percent of sales as well as initial fees upon 
the opening of a new restaurant or grant of a new license. We use 
the developmental license ownership structure in over 80 
countries with a total of approximately 6,900 restaurants. The 
largest developmental licensee operates approximately 2,200 
restaurants in 19 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. 

Finally, the Company also has an equity investment in a 

limited number of foreign affiliated markets, referred to as 
“affiliates.” In these markets, the Company receives a royalty 
based on a percent of sales and records its share of net results in 
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates.  In 2017, the 
Company completed the sale of its businesses in China and Hong 
Kong, while retaining a 20% ownership in the entity that now owns 
the business. There are approximately 5,800 restaurants in foreign 
affiliated markets, the largest of which are Japan and China, 
where there are about 2,900 and 2,600 restaurants, respectively.

  Supply Chain and Quality Assurance

The Company and its franchisees purchase food, packaging, 
equipment and other goods from numerous independent 
suppliers. The Company has established and enforces high quality 
standards and product specifications. The Company has quality 
centers around the world designed to ensure that its high 
standards are consistently met. The quality assurance process not 
only involves ongoing product reviews, but also on-site supplier 
visits. A Food Safety Advisory Council, composed of the 
Company’s technical, safety and supply chain specialists, as well 
as suppliers and outside academia, provides strategic global 
leadership for all aspects of food safety. In addition, the Company 
works closely with suppliers to encourage innovation, assure best 
practices and drive continuous improvement. Leveraging scale, 
supply chain infrastructure and risk management strategies, the 
Company also collaborates with suppliers toward a goal of 
achieving competitive, predictable food and paper costs over the 
long term.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    1

 
Independently owned and operated distribution centers, 

approved by the Company, distribute products and supplies to 
McDonald’s restaurants. In addition, restaurant personnel are 
trained in the proper storage, handling and preparation of 
products.

  Products

 McDonald’s restaurants offer a substantially uniform menu, 
although there are geographic variations to suit local consumer 
preferences and tastes. In addition, McDonald’s tests new 
products on an ongoing basis.

McDonald’s menu includes hamburgers and cheeseburgers, 

Big Mac, Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Filet-O-Fish, several 
chicken sandwiches, Chicken McNuggets, wraps, french fries, 
salads, oatmeal, shakes, McFlurry desserts, sundaes, soft serve 
cones, pies, soft drinks, coffee, McCafé beverages and other 
beverages. In addition, the restaurants sell a variety of other 
products during limited-time promotions.

McDonald’s restaurants in the U.S. and many international 

markets offer a full or limited breakfast menu. Breakfast offerings 
may include Egg McMuffin, Sausage McMuffin with Egg, 
McGriddles, biscuit and bagel sandwiches and hotcakes. 

Quality, choice and nutrition are increasingly important to our 

customers and we are continuously evolving our menu to meet our 
customers' needs.

  Marketing

McDonald’s global brand is well known. Marketing, promotional 
and public relations activities are designed to promote McDonald’s 
brand and differentiate the Company from competitors. Marketing 
and promotional efforts focus on value, quality, food taste, menu 
choice, nutrition, convenience and the customer experience. 

Intellectual property

The Company owns or is licensed to use valuable intellectual 
property including trademarks, service marks, patents, copyrights, 
trade secrets and other proprietary information. The Company 
considers the trademarks “McDonald’s” and “The Golden Arches 
Logo” to be of material importance to its business. Depending on 
the jurisdiction, trademarks and service marks generally are valid 
as long as they are used and/or registered. Patents, copyrights 
and licenses are of varying durations.

  Seasonal operations

The Company does not consider its operations to be seasonal to 
any material degree.

  Working capital practices

Information about the Company’s working capital practices is 
incorporated herein by reference to Management’s Discussion and 
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the 
years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015 in Part II, 
Item 7, pages 14 through 29, and the consolidated statement of 
cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 
2015 in Part II, Item 8, page 34 of this Form 10-K.

  Customers

The Company’s business is not dependent upon either a single 
customer or small group of customers.

  Backlog

Company-operated restaurants have no backlog orders.

  Government contracts

No material portion of the business is subject to renegotiation of 
profits or termination of contracts or subcontracts at government 
election.

2    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

  Competition

  Number of employees

McDonald’s restaurants compete with international, national, 
regional and local retailers of food products. The Company 
competes on the basis of price, convenience, service, menu 
variety and product quality in a highly fragmented global 
restaurant industry.

In measuring the Company’s competitive position, 

management reviews data compiled by Euromonitor International, 
a leading source of market data with respect to the global 
restaurant industry. The Company’s primary competition, which is 
referred to as the informal eating out ("IEO") segment, includes 
the following restaurant categories defined by Euromonitor 
International: quick-service eating establishments, casual dining 
full-service restaurants, street stalls or kiosks, cafés,100% home 
delivery/takeaway providers, specialist coffee shops, self-service 
cafeterias and juice/smoothie bars. The IEO segment excludes 
establishments that primarily serve alcohol and full-service 
restaurants other than casual dining.

Based on data from Euromonitor International, the global IEO 

segment was composed of approximately 9 million outlets and 
generated $1.2 trillion in annual sales in 2016, the most recent 
year for which data is available. McDonald’s Systemwide 2016 
restaurant business accounted for 0.4% of those outlets and 7.0% 
of the sales.

Management also on occasion benchmarks McDonald’s 
against the entire restaurant industry, including the IEO segment 
defined above and all other full-service restaurants. Based on data 
from Euromonitor International, the restaurant industry was 
composed of approximately 19 million outlets and generated $2.4 
trillion in annual sales in 2016. McDonald’s Systemwide restaurant 
business accounted for 0.2% of those outlets and 3.5% of the 
sales.

  Research and development

The Company performs research and development activities in the 
U.S., Europe and Asia. While research and development activities 
are important to the Company’s business, these expenditures are 
not material. Independent suppliers also conduct research 
activities that benefit the Company, its franchisees and suppliers 
(collectively referred to as the "System").

  Environmental matters

The Company continuously endeavors to improve its social 
responsibility and environmental practices to achieve long-term 
sustainability, which benefits McDonald’s and the communities it 
serves.

Increased focus by certain governmental authorities on 
environmental matters may lead to new governmental initiatives. 
While we cannot predict the precise nature of these initiatives, we 
expect that they may impact our business both directly and 
indirectly. Although the impact would likely vary by world region 
and/or market, we believe that adoption of new regulations may 
increase costs for the Company. Also, there is a possibility that 
governmental initiatives, or actual or perceived effects of changes 
in weather patterns, climate, or water resources, could have a 
direct impact on the operations of the System in ways which we 
cannot predict at this time.

The Company monitors developments related to 

environmental matters and plans to respond to governmental 
initiatives in a timely and appropriate manner. At this time, the 
Company has already begun to undertake its own initiatives 
relating to preservation of the environment, including the 
implementation of more energy efficient equipment and 
management of energy use and more sustainable sourcing 
practices in many of its markets.

The Company’s number of employees worldwide, including its 
corporate office employees and company-owned restaurant 
employees, was approximately 235,000 as of year-end 2017.

d. Financial information about geographic areas
Financial information about geographic areas is incorporated 
herein by reference to Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations in Part II, Item 7, 
pages 14 through 29 and Segment and geographic information in 
Part II, Item 8, page 47 of this Form 10-K.

e. Available information
The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act"). The Company 
therefore files periodic reports, proxy statements and other 
information with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission 
("SEC"). Such reports may be obtained by visiting the Public 
Reference Room of the SEC at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 
20549, or by calling the SEC at (800) SEC-0330. In addition, the 
SEC maintains an Internet site (www.sec.gov) that contains 
reports, proxy and information statements and other information.

Financial and other information can also be accessed on the 

investor section of the Company’s website at 
www.investor.mcdonalds.com. The Company makes available, 
free of charge, copies of its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly 
reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and 
amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to 
Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably 
practicable after filing such material electronically or otherwise 
furnishing it to the SEC. Copies of financial and other information 
are also available free of charge by calling (800) 228-9623 or by 
sending a request to McDonald’s Corporation Shareholder 
Services, Department 720, 711 Jorie Boulevard, Oak Brook, 
Illinois 60523.

Also posted on McDonald’s website are the Company’s 

Corporate Governance Principles; the charters for each of the 
Committees of the Board of Directors, including the Audit and 
Finance Committee, Compensation Committee, Governance 
Committee, Public Policy and Strategy Committee and 
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility Committee; the Code 
of Conduct for the Board of Directors; and the Company’s 
Standards of Business Conduct, which applies to all officers and 
employees. Copies of these documents are also available free of 
charge by calling (800) 228-9623 or by sending a request to 
McDonald’s Corporation Shareholder Services, Department 720, 
711 Jorie Boulevard, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523.

Information on the Company’s website is not incorporated into 

this Form 10-K or the Company’s other securities filings and is not 
a part of them. 

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors and Cautionary
Statement Regarding Forward-Looking
Statements

The information in this report includes forward-looking 
statements about future events and circumstances and their 
effects upon revenues, expenses and business opportunities. 
Generally speaking, any statement in this report not based upon 
historical fact is a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking 
statements can also be identified by the use of forward-looking 
words, such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate” and 
“plan” or similar expressions. In particular, statements regarding 
our plans, strategies, prospects and expectations regarding our 
business and industry, including those under "Outlook", are 
forward-looking statements. They reflect our expectations, are 

not guarantees of performance and speak only as of the date of 

this report. Except as required by law, we do not undertake to 

update them. Our expectations (or the underlying assumptions) 

may change or not be realized, and you should not rely unduly 

on forward-looking statements. Our business results are subject 

to a variety of risks, including those that are reflected in the 

following considerations and factors, as well as elsewhere in our 

filings with the SEC. If any of these considerations or risks 

materialize, our expectations may change and our performance 

may be adversely affected. 

If we do not successfully evolve and execute against our 

business strategies, we may not be able to increase operating 

income. 

To drive future results, our business strategies must be 

effective in delivering increased guest counts to drive operating 

income growth. Whether these strategies are successful 

depends mainly on our System’s ability to: 

•  Continue to innovate and differentiate the McDonald’s 

experience by preparing and serving our food in a way that 

balances value and convenience to our customers with 

profitability; 

•  Capitalize on our global scale, iconic brand and local market 

presence to enhance our ability to retain, regain and convert 

key customer groups; 

•  Utilize our more adaptive organizational structure to execute 

against our initiatives at an accelerated pace; 

• 

Strengthen customer appeal and augment our digital 

initiatives, including mobile ordering and delivery, along with 

Experience of the Future (“EOTF”), particularly in the U.S.; 

• 

Identify and develop restaurant sites consistent with our 

plans for net growth of Systemwide restaurants; and 

•  Operate restaurants with high service levels and optimal 

capacity while managing the increasing complexity of our 

restaurant operations.

If we are delayed or unsuccessful in executing our 

strategies, or if our strategies do not yield the desired results, 

our business, financial condition and results of operations may 

Our investments to enhance the customer experience, 

including through technology, may not generate the expected 

suffer. 

returns. 

We will continue to build upon our investments in EOTF, 

which focus on restaurant modernization and technology and 

digital engagement in order to transform the restaurant 

experience. As we accelerate our pace of converting restaurants 

to EOTF, we are placing renewed emphasis on improving our 

service model and strengthening relationships with customers, 

in part through digital channels and loyalty initiatives, as well as 

mobile ordering and payment systems. We also continue to 

build on delivery initiatives, which may not generate expected 

returns. We may not fully realize the intended benefits of these 

significant investments, or these initiatives may not be well 

executed, and therefore our business results may suffer.  

If we do not anticipate and address evolving consumer 

preferences, our business could suffer. 

Our continued success depends on our System’s ability to 

anticipate and respond effectively to continuously shifting 

consumer demographics, and trends in food sourcing, food 

preparation, food offerings and consumer preferences  in the 

“informal eating out” IEO segment. In order to deliver a relevant 

experience for our customers amidst a highly competitive, 

value-driven operating environment, we must implement 

initiatives to adapt at an aggressive pace. There is no assurance 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    3

 
 
 
Independently owned and operated distribution centers, 

approved by the Company, distribute products and supplies to 

McDonald’s restaurants. In addition, restaurant personnel are 

trained in the proper storage, handling and preparation of 

products.

  Products

 McDonald’s restaurants offer a substantially uniform menu, 

although there are geographic variations to suit local consumer 

preferences and tastes. In addition, McDonald’s tests new 

products on an ongoing basis.

McDonald’s menu includes hamburgers and cheeseburgers, 

Big Mac, Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Filet-O-Fish, several 

chicken sandwiches, Chicken McNuggets, wraps, french fries, 

salads, oatmeal, shakes, McFlurry desserts, sundaes, soft serve 

cones, pies, soft drinks, coffee, McCafé beverages and other 

beverages. In addition, the restaurants sell a variety of other 

products during limited-time promotions.

McDonald’s restaurants in the U.S. and many international 

markets offer a full or limited breakfast menu. Breakfast offerings 

may include Egg McMuffin, Sausage McMuffin with Egg, 

McGriddles, biscuit and bagel sandwiches and hotcakes. 

Quality, choice and nutrition are increasingly important to our 

customers and we are continuously evolving our menu to meet our 

of the sales.

customers' needs.

  Marketing

McDonald’s global brand is well known. Marketing, promotional 

  Competition

  Number of employees

McDonald’s restaurants compete with international, national, 

regional and local retailers of food products. The Company 

competes on the basis of price, convenience, service, menu 

variety and product quality in a highly fragmented global 

restaurant industry.

In measuring the Company’s competitive position, 

management reviews data compiled by Euromonitor International, 

a leading source of market data with respect to the global 

restaurant industry. The Company’s primary competition, which is 

referred to as the informal eating out ("IEO") segment, includes 

the following restaurant categories defined by Euromonitor 

International: quick-service eating establishments, casual dining 

full-service restaurants, street stalls or kiosks, cafés,100% home 
delivery/takeaway providers, specialist coffee shops, self-service 

cafeterias and juice/smoothie bars. The IEO segment excludes 

establishments that primarily serve alcohol and full-service 

restaurants other than casual dining.

Based on data from Euromonitor International, the global IEO 

segment was composed of approximately 9 million outlets and 

generated $1.2 trillion in annual sales in 2016, the most recent 

year for which data is available. McDonald’s Systemwide 2016 

restaurant business accounted for 0.4% of those outlets and 7.0% 

Management also on occasion benchmarks McDonald’s 

against the entire restaurant industry, including the IEO segment 
defined above and all other full-service restaurants. Based on data 

and public relations activities are designed to promote McDonald’s 

from Euromonitor International, the restaurant industry was 

brand and differentiate the Company from competitors. Marketing 

and promotional efforts focus on value, quality, food taste, menu 

composed of approximately 19 million outlets and generated $2.4 
trillion in annual sales in 2016. McDonald’s Systemwide restaurant 

choice, nutrition, convenience and the customer experience. 

business accounted for 0.2% of those outlets and 3.5% of the 

Intellectual property

The Company owns or is licensed to use valuable intellectual 

property including trademarks, service marks, patents, copyrights, 

trade secrets and other proprietary information. The Company 

considers the trademarks “McDonald’s” and “The Golden Arches 

sales.

  Research and development

The Company performs research and development activities in the 
U.S., Europe and Asia. While research and development activities 
are important to the Company’s business, these expenditures are 

Logo” to be of material importance to its business. Depending on 

not material. Independent suppliers also conduct research 

the jurisdiction, trademarks and service marks generally are valid 

activities that benefit the Company, its franchisees and suppliers 

as long as they are used and/or registered. Patents, copyrights 

(collectively referred to as the "System").

The Company does not consider its operations to be seasonal to 

responsibility and environmental practices to achieve long-term 

and licenses are of varying durations.

  Seasonal operations

any material degree.

  Working capital practices

Information about the Company’s working capital practices is 

incorporated herein by reference to Management’s Discussion and 

Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the 

years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 2015 in Part II, 

Item 7, pages 14 through 29, and the consolidated statement of 

cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016, and 

2015 in Part II, Item 8, page 34 of this Form 10-K.

The Company’s business is not dependent upon either a single 

customer or small group of customers.

  Customers

  Backlog

Company-operated restaurants have no backlog orders.

  Government contracts

No material portion of the business is subject to renegotiation of 

profits or termination of contracts or subcontracts at government 

election.

  Environmental matters

The Company continuously endeavors to improve its social 

sustainability, which benefits McDonald’s and the communities it 

serves.

Increased focus by certain governmental authorities on 

environmental matters may lead to new governmental initiatives. 
While we cannot predict the precise nature of these initiatives, we 

expect that they may impact our business both directly and 

indirectly. Although the impact would likely vary by world region 

and/or market, we believe that adoption of new regulations may 

increase costs for the Company. Also, there is a possibility that 

governmental initiatives, or actual or perceived effects of changes 

in weather patterns, climate, or water resources, could have a 

direct impact on the operations of the System in ways which we 

cannot predict at this time.

The Company monitors developments related to 

environmental matters and plans to respond to governmental 

initiatives in a timely and appropriate manner. At this time, the 

Company has already begun to undertake its own initiatives 

relating to preservation of the environment, including the 

implementation of more energy efficient equipment and 

management of energy use and more sustainable sourcing 

practices in many of its markets.

2    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

The Company’s number of employees worldwide, including its 
corporate office employees and company-owned restaurant 
employees, was approximately 235,000 as of year-end 2017.

d. Financial information about geographic areas
Financial information about geographic areas is incorporated 
herein by reference to Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations in Part II, Item 7, 
pages 14 through 29 and Segment and geographic information in 
Part II, Item 8, page 47 of this Form 10-K.

e. Available information
The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 ("Exchange Act"). The Company 
therefore files periodic reports, proxy statements and other 
information with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission 
("SEC"). Such reports may be obtained by visiting the Public 
Reference Room of the SEC at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 
20549, or by calling the SEC at (800) SEC-0330. In addition, the 
SEC maintains an Internet site (www.sec.gov) that contains 
reports, proxy and information statements and other information.

Financial and other information can also be accessed on the 

investor section of the Company’s website at 
www.investor.mcdonalds.com. The Company makes available, 
free of charge, copies of its annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly 
reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and 
amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to 
Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act as soon as reasonably 
practicable after filing such material electronically or otherwise 
furnishing it to the SEC. Copies of financial and other information 
are also available free of charge by calling (800) 228-9623 or by 
sending a request to McDonald’s Corporation Shareholder 
Services, Department 720, 711 Jorie Boulevard, Oak Brook, 
Illinois 60523.

Also posted on McDonald’s website are the Company’s 

Corporate Governance Principles; the charters for each of the 
Committees of the Board of Directors, including the Audit and 
Finance Committee, Compensation Committee, Governance 
Committee, Public Policy and Strategy Committee and 
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility Committee; the Code 
of Conduct for the Board of Directors; and the Company’s 
Standards of Business Conduct, which applies to all officers and 
employees. Copies of these documents are also available free of 
charge by calling (800) 228-9623 or by sending a request to 
McDonald’s Corporation Shareholder Services, Department 720, 
711 Jorie Boulevard, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523.

Information on the Company’s website is not incorporated into 
this Form 10-K or the Company’s other securities filings and is not 
a part of them. 

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors and Cautionary
Statement Regarding Forward-Looking
Statements

The information in this report includes forward-looking 
statements about future events and circumstances and their 
effects upon revenues, expenses and business opportunities. 
Generally speaking, any statement in this report not based upon 
historical fact is a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking 
statements can also be identified by the use of forward-looking 
words, such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate” and 
“plan” or similar expressions. In particular, statements regarding 
our plans, strategies, prospects and expectations regarding our 
business and industry, including those under "Outlook", are 
forward-looking statements. They reflect our expectations, are 

not guarantees of performance and speak only as of the date of 
this report. Except as required by law, we do not undertake to 
update them. Our expectations (or the underlying assumptions) 
may change or not be realized, and you should not rely unduly 
on forward-looking statements. Our business results are subject 
to a variety of risks, including those that are reflected in the 
following considerations and factors, as well as elsewhere in our 
filings with the SEC. If any of these considerations or risks 
materialize, our expectations may change and our performance 
may be adversely affected. 

If we do not successfully evolve and execute against our 
business strategies, we may not be able to increase operating 
income. 

To drive future results, our business strategies must be 

effective in delivering increased guest counts to drive operating 
income growth. Whether these strategies are successful 
depends mainly on our System’s ability to: 

•  Continue to innovate and differentiate the McDonald’s 

experience by preparing and serving our food in a way that 
balances value and convenience to our customers with 
profitability; 

•  Capitalize on our global scale, iconic brand and local market 
presence to enhance our ability to retain, regain and convert 
key customer groups; 

•  Utilize our more adaptive organizational structure to execute 

against our initiatives at an accelerated pace; 

• 

• 

Strengthen customer appeal and augment our digital 
initiatives, including mobile ordering and delivery, along with 
Experience of the Future (“EOTF”), particularly in the U.S.; 

Identify and develop restaurant sites consistent with our 
plans for net growth of Systemwide restaurants; and 

•  Operate restaurants with high service levels and optimal 
capacity while managing the increasing complexity of our 
restaurant operations.

If we are delayed or unsuccessful in executing our 
strategies, or if our strategies do not yield the desired results, 
our business, financial condition and results of operations may 
suffer. 

Our investments to enhance the customer experience, 
including through technology, may not generate the expected 
returns. 

We will continue to build upon our investments in EOTF, 
which focus on restaurant modernization and technology and 
digital engagement in order to transform the restaurant 
experience. As we accelerate our pace of converting restaurants 
to EOTF, we are placing renewed emphasis on improving our 
service model and strengthening relationships with customers, 
in part through digital channels and loyalty initiatives, as well as 
mobile ordering and payment systems. We also continue to 
build on delivery initiatives, which may not generate expected 
returns. We may not fully realize the intended benefits of these 
significant investments, or these initiatives may not be well 
executed, and therefore our business results may suffer.  

If we do not anticipate and address evolving consumer 
preferences, our business could suffer. 

Our continued success depends on our System’s ability to 

anticipate and respond effectively to continuously shifting 
consumer demographics, and trends in food sourcing, food 
preparation, food offerings and consumer preferences  in the 
“informal eating out” IEO segment. In order to deliver a relevant 
experience for our customers amidst a highly competitive, 
value-driven operating environment, we must implement 
initiatives to adapt at an aggressive pace. There is no assurance 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    3

 
 
 
that these initiatives will be successful and, if they are not, our 
financial results could be adversely impacted. 

Activities relating to our refranchising and cost savings 
initiatives remain ongoing and entail various risks.

Our previously announced refranchising and cost saving 
initiatives remain ongoing.  As we continue on those initiatives, 
the existing risks we face in our business may be intensified. 
Our efforts to reduce costs and capital expenditures depend, in 
part, upon our refranchising efforts, which, in turn, depend upon 
our selection and integration of capable third parties. Our cost 
savings initiatives also depend upon a variety of factors, 
including our ability to achieve efficiencies through the 
consolidation of global, back-office functions. If these various 
initiatives are not successful, take longer to complete than 
initially projected, or are not well executed, or if our cost 
reduction efforts adversely impact our effectiveness, our 
business operations, financial results and results of operations 
could be adversely affected.  

If pricing, promotional and marketing plans are not effective, 
our results may be negatively impacted. 

Our results depend on the impact of pricing, promotional 

and marketing plans across the System, and the ability to adjust 
these plans to respond quickly and effectively to evolving 
customer preferences, as well as shifting economic and 
competitive conditions. Existing or future pricing strategies, and 
the value proposition they represent, are expected to continue 
to be important components of our business strategy; however, 
they may not be successful and could negatively impact sales 
and margins. Further, the promotion of menu offerings may yield 
results below the desired levels.  

Additionally, we operate in a complex and costly 

advertising environment. Our marketing and advertising 
programs may not be successful, and we may fail to attract and 
retain customers. Our success depends in part on whether the 
allocation of our advertising and marketing resources across 
different channels allows us to reach our customers effectively. 
If the advertising and marketing programs are not successful, or 
are not as successful as those of our competitors, our sales, 
guest counts and market share could decrease. 

Failure to preserve the value and relevance of our brand 
could have an adverse impact on our financial results. 

To be successful in the future, we believe we must 
preserve, enhance and leverage the value of our brand. Brand 
value is based in part on consumer perceptions. Those 
perceptions are affected by a variety of factors, including the 
nutritional content and preparation of our food, the ingredients 
we use, our business practices and the manner in which we 
source the commodities we use. Consumer acceptance of our 
offerings is subject to change for a variety of reasons, and some 
changes can occur rapidly. For example, nutritional, health and 
other scientific studies and conclusions, which constantly evolve 
and may have contradictory implications, drive popular opinion, 
litigation and regulation (including initiatives intended to drive 
consumer behavior) in ways that affect the IEO segment or 
perceptions of our brand generally or relative to available 
alternatives. Consumer perceptions may also be affected by 
third parties presenting or promoting adverse commentary or 
portrayals of the quick-service category of the IEO segment, our 
brand and/or our operations, our suppliers or our franchisees. If 
we are unsuccessful in addressing such adverse commentary or 
portrayals, our brand and our financial results may suffer. 

Additionally, the ongoing relevance of our brand may 

depend on the success of our sustainability initiatives, which 
require System-wide coordination and alignment. If we are not 

4    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

effective in addressing social responsibility matters or achieving 
relevant sustainability goals, consumer trust in our brand may 
suffer. In particular, business incidents or practices that erode 
consumer trust or confidence, particularly if such incidents or 
practices receive considerable publicity or result in litigation, can 
significantly reduce brand value and have a negative impact on 
our financial results. 

We face intense competition in our markets, which could hurt 
our business.

We compete primarily in the IEO segment, which is highly 

competitive. We also face sustained, intense competition from 
traditional, fast casual and other competitors, which may include 
many non-traditional market participants such as convenience 
stores, grocery stores and coffee shops. We expect our 
environment to continue to be highly competitive, and our 
results in any particular reporting period may be impacted by 
new or continuing actions of our competitors, which may have a 
short- or long-term impact on our results.

We compete on the basis of product choice, quality, 
affordability, service and location. In particular, we believe our 
ability to compete successfully in the current market 
environment depends on our ability to improve existing 
products, develop new products, price our products 
appropriately, deliver a relevant customer experience, manage 
the complexity of our restaurant operations and respond 
effectively to our competitors’ actions or disruptive actions from 
others which we do not foresee. Recognizing these 
dependencies, we have intensified our focus in recent periods 
on strategies to achieve these goals, and we will likely continue 
to modify our strategies and implement new strategies in the 
future. There can be no assurance these strategies will be 
effective, and some strategies may be effective at improving 
some metrics while adversely affecting other metrics.

Unfavorable general economic conditions could adversely 
affect our business and financial results. 

Our results of operations are substantially affected by 
economic conditions, which can vary significantly by market and 
can impact consumer disposable income levels and spending 
habits. Economic conditions can also be impacted by a variety 
of factors including hostilities, epidemics and actions taken by 
governments to manage national and international economic 
matters, whether through austerity, stimulus measures or trade 
measures, and initiatives intended to control wages, 
unemployment, credit availability, inflation, taxation and other 
economic drivers. Continued adverse economic conditions or 
adverse changes in economic conditions in our markets could 
pressure our operating performance, and our business and 
financial results may suffer. 

Our results of operations are also affected by fluctuations 

in currency exchange rates, which may adversely affect 
reported earnings. 

Supply chain interruptions may increase costs or reduce 
revenues. 

We depend on the effectiveness of our supply chain 

management to assure reliable and sufficient product supply, 
including on favorable terms. Although many of the products we 
sell are sourced from a wide variety of suppliers in countries 
around the world, certain products have limited suppliers, which 
may increase our reliance on those suppliers. Supply chain 
interruptions, including shortages and transportation issues, and 
price increases can adversely affect us as well as our suppliers 
and franchisees whose performance may have a significant 
impact on our results. Such shortages or disruptions could be 
caused by factors beyond the control of our suppliers, 

franchisees or us. If we experience interruptions in our System’s 
supply chain, our costs could increase and it could limit the 
availability of products critical to our System’s operations. 

franchisees, licensees and/or affiliates that meet our rigorous 

standards, and whether their performance and the resulting 

ownership mix supports our brand and financial objectives. 

Food safety concerns may have an adverse effect on our 
business. 

our business. 

Challenges with respect to talent management could harm 

Our ability to increase sales and profits depends on our 

Effective succession planning is important to our long-

Our success increasingly relies on the financial success 

workforce, which includes our staff and employees working in 

System’s ability to meet expectations for safe food and on our 
ability to manage the potential impact on McDonald’s of food-
borne illnesses and food or product safety issues that may arise 
in the future. Food safety is a top priority, and we dedicate 
substantial resources to ensure that our customers enjoy safe 
food products, including as our menu and service model evolve. 
However, food safety events, including instances of food-borne 
illness, have occurred in the food industry in the past, and could 
occur in the future. Instances of food tampering, food 
contamination or food-borne illness, whether actual or 
perceived, could adversely affect our brand and reputation as 
well as our revenues and profits. 

Our franchise business model presents a number of risks. 

and cooperation of our franchisees, including our developmental 
licensees and affiliates, yet we have limited influence over their 
operations. Our restaurant margins arise from two sources: fees 
from franchised restaurants (e.g., rent and royalties based on a 
percentage of sales) and, to a lesser degree, sales from 
Company-operated restaurants. Our franchisees manage their 
businesses independently, and therefore are responsible for the 
day-to-day operation of their restaurants. The revenues we 
realize from franchised restaurants are largely dependent on the 
ability of our franchisees to grow their sales. If our franchisees 
do not experience sales growth, our revenues and margins 
could be negatively affected as a result. Also, if sales trends 
worsen for franchisees, their financial results may deteriorate, 
which could result in, among other things, restaurant closures, 
or delayed or reduced payments to us. Our refranchising efforts 
will continue to increase that dependence and the potential 
effect of those factors. 

Our success also increasingly depends on the 

willingness and ability of our independent franchisees and 
affiliates to implement major initiatives, which may include 
financial investment, and to remain aligned with us on operating, 
promotional and capital-intensive reinvestment plans. 
Franchisees’ ability to contribute to the achievement of our plans 
is dependent in large part on the availability to them of funding 
at reasonable interest rates and may be negatively impacted by 
the financial markets in general or by the creditworthiness of our 
franchisees or the Company. Our operating performance could 
also be negatively affected if our franchisees experience food 
safety or other operational problems or project an image 
inconsistent with our brand and values, particularly if our 
contractual and other rights and remedies are limited, costly to 
exercise or subjected to litigation and potential delays. If 
franchisees do not successfully operate restaurants in a manner 
consistent with our required standards, our brand’s image and 
reputation could be harmed, which in turn could hurt our 
business and operating results. 

Our ownership mix also affects our results and financial 

condition. The decision to own restaurants or to operate under 
franchise or license agreements is driven by many factors 
whose interrelationship is complex and changing. Our ability to 
achieve the benefits of our refranchising strategy, which involves 
a significant percentage of franchised restaurants, including an 
increased number of restaurants run by developmental 
licensees and affiliates, depends on various factors. Those 
factors include whether we have effectively selected 

term success. Failure to effectively identify, develop and retain 

key personnel, recruit high-quality candidates and ensure 

smooth management and personnel transitions could disrupt 

our business and adversely affect our results. 

Our success depends in part on our System’s ability to 

recruit, motivate and retain a qualified workforce to work in our 

restaurants in an intensely competitive environment. Increased 

costs associated with recruiting, motivating and retaining 

qualified employees to work in our Company-operated 

restaurants could have a negative impact on our Company-

operated margins. Similar concerns apply to our franchisees. 

We are also impacted by the costs and other effects of 

compliance with U.S. and international regulations affecting our 

our Company-operated restaurants. These regulations are 

increasingly focused on employment issues, including wage and 

hour, healthcare, immigration, retirement and other employee 

benefits and workplace practices. Our potential exposure to 

reputational and other harm regarding our workplace practices 

or conditions or those of our independent franchisees or 

suppliers (or perceptions thereof) could have a negative impact 

on consumer perceptions of us and our business. Additionally, 

economic action, such as boycotts, protests, work stoppages or 

campaigns by labor organizations, could adversely affect us 

(including our ability to recruit and retain talent) or the 

franchisees and suppliers that are also part of the McDonald's 

System and whose performance may have a material impact on 

our results. 

Information technology system failures or interruptions, or 

breaches of network security, may interrupt our operations. 

We are increasingly reliant on technological systems, 

such as point-of-sale and other in-store systems or platforms, 

technologies supporting McDonald’s delivery and digital 

solutions, as well as technologies that facilitate communication 

and collaboration internally, with affiliated entities, customers or 

independent third parties to conduct our business, including 

technology-enabled systems provided to us by third parties. Any 

failure of these systems could significantly impact our 

operations and customer experience and perceptions.

Despite the implementation of security measures, those 

technology systems and solutions could become vulnerable to 

damage, disability or failures due to theft, fire, power loss, 

telecommunications failure or other catastrophic events. Our 

increasing reliance on third party systems also present the risks 

faced by the third party’s business, including the operational, 

security and credit risks of those parties. If those systems were 

to fail or otherwise be unavailable, and we were unable to 

recover in a timely way, we could experience an interruption in 

our operations.

Furthermore, security breaches have from time to time 

occurred and may in the future occur involving our systems, the 

systems of the parties we communicate or collaborate with 

(including franchisees), or those of third party providers. These 

may include such things as unauthorized access, denial of 

service, computer viruses, introduction of malware or 

ransomware and other disruptive problems caused by hackers.  

Our information technology systems contain personal, financial 

and other information that is entrusted to us by our customers, 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    5

 
franchisees or us. If we experience interruptions in our System’s 
supply chain, our costs could increase and it could limit the 
availability of products critical to our System’s operations. 

franchisees, licensees and/or affiliates that meet our rigorous 
standards, and whether their performance and the resulting 
ownership mix supports our brand and financial objectives. 

Food safety concerns may have an adverse effect on our 
business. 

Challenges with respect to talent management could harm 
our business. 

that these initiatives will be successful and, if they are not, our 

effective in addressing social responsibility matters or achieving 

financial results could be adversely impacted. 

Activities relating to our refranchising and cost savings 

initiatives remain ongoing and entail various risks.

Our previously announced refranchising and cost saving 

initiatives remain ongoing.  As we continue on those initiatives, 

the existing risks we face in our business may be intensified. 

Our efforts to reduce costs and capital expenditures depend, in 

part, upon our refranchising efforts, which, in turn, depend upon 

our selection and integration of capable third parties. Our cost 

savings initiatives also depend upon a variety of factors, 

including our ability to achieve efficiencies through the 

relevant sustainability goals, consumer trust in our brand may 

suffer. In particular, business incidents or practices that erode 

consumer trust or confidence, particularly if such incidents or 

practices receive considerable publicity or result in litigation, can 

significantly reduce brand value and have a negative impact on 

our financial results. 

our business.

We face intense competition in our markets, which could hurt 

We compete primarily in the IEO segment, which is highly 

competitive. We also face sustained, intense competition from 

traditional, fast casual and other competitors, which may include 

consolidation of global, back-office functions. If these various 

many non-traditional market participants such as convenience 

initiatives are not successful, take longer to complete than 

initially projected, or are not well executed, or if our cost 

reduction efforts adversely impact our effectiveness, our 

stores, grocery stores and coffee shops. We expect our 

environment to continue to be highly competitive, and our 

results in any particular reporting period may be impacted by 

business operations, financial results and results of operations 

new or continuing actions of our competitors, which may have a 

could be adversely affected.  

short- or long-term impact on our results.

Our ability to increase sales and profits depends on our 
System’s ability to meet expectations for safe food and on our 
ability to manage the potential impact on McDonald’s of food-
borne illnesses and food or product safety issues that may arise 
in the future. Food safety is a top priority, and we dedicate 
substantial resources to ensure that our customers enjoy safe 
food products, including as our menu and service model evolve. 
However, food safety events, including instances of food-borne 
illness, have occurred in the food industry in the past, and could 
occur in the future. Instances of food tampering, food 
contamination or food-borne illness, whether actual or 
perceived, could adversely affect our brand and reputation as 
well as our revenues and profits. 

If pricing, promotional and marketing plans are not effective, 

We compete on the basis of product choice, quality, 

Our franchise business model presents a number of risks. 

If the advertising and marketing programs are not successful, or 

economic conditions, which can vary significantly by market and 

are not as successful as those of our competitors, our sales, 

can impact consumer disposable income levels and spending 

our results may be negatively impacted. 

Our results depend on the impact of pricing, promotional 

and marketing plans across the System, and the ability to adjust 

these plans to respond quickly and effectively to evolving 

customer preferences, as well as shifting economic and 

competitive conditions. Existing or future pricing strategies, and 

the value proposition they represent, are expected to continue 

to be important components of our business strategy; however, 

they may not be successful and could negatively impact sales 

and margins. Further, the promotion of menu offerings may yield 

results below the desired levels.  

Additionally, we operate in a complex and costly 

advertising environment. Our marketing and advertising 

programs may not be successful, and we may fail to attract and 

retain customers. Our success depends in part on whether the 

allocation of our advertising and marketing resources across 

different channels allows us to reach our customers effectively. 

guest counts and market share could decrease. 

Failure to preserve the value and relevance of our brand 

could have an adverse impact on our financial results. 

To be successful in the future, we believe we must 

preserve, enhance and leverage the value of our brand. Brand 

value is based in part on consumer perceptions. Those 

perceptions are affected by a variety of factors, including the 

nutritional content and preparation of our food, the ingredients 

we use, our business practices and the manner in which we 

source the commodities we use. Consumer acceptance of our 

offerings is subject to change for a variety of reasons, and some 

changes can occur rapidly. For example, nutritional, health and 

other scientific studies and conclusions, which constantly evolve 

and may have contradictory implications, drive popular opinion, 

litigation and regulation (including initiatives intended to drive 

consumer behavior) in ways that affect the IEO segment or 

perceptions of our brand generally or relative to available 

alternatives. Consumer perceptions may also be affected by 

third parties presenting or promoting adverse commentary or 

portrayals of the quick-service category of the IEO segment, our 

brand and/or our operations, our suppliers or our franchisees. If 

we are unsuccessful in addressing such adverse commentary or 

portrayals, our brand and our financial results may suffer. 

affordability, service and location. In particular, we believe our 

ability to compete successfully in the current market 

environment depends on our ability to improve existing 

products, develop new products, price our products 

appropriately, deliver a relevant customer experience, manage 

the complexity of our restaurant operations and respond 

effectively to our competitors’ actions or disruptive actions from 

others which we do not foresee. Recognizing these 

dependencies, we have intensified our focus in recent periods 

on strategies to achieve these goals, and we will likely continue 

to modify our strategies and implement new strategies in the 

future. There can be no assurance these strategies will be 

effective, and some strategies may be effective at improving 

some metrics while adversely affecting other metrics.

Unfavorable general economic conditions could adversely 

affect our business and financial results. 

Our results of operations are substantially affected by 

habits. Economic conditions can also be impacted by a variety 

of factors including hostilities, epidemics and actions taken by 

governments to manage national and international economic 

matters, whether through austerity, stimulus measures or trade 

measures, and initiatives intended to control wages, 

unemployment, credit availability, inflation, taxation and other 

economic drivers. Continued adverse economic conditions or 

adverse changes in economic conditions in our markets could 

pressure our operating performance, and our business and 

financial results may suffer. 

Our results of operations are also affected by fluctuations 

in currency exchange rates, which may adversely affect 

reported earnings. 

revenues. 

Supply chain interruptions may increase costs or reduce 

We depend on the effectiveness of our supply chain 

management to assure reliable and sufficient product supply, 

including on favorable terms. Although many of the products we 

sell are sourced from a wide variety of suppliers in countries 

around the world, certain products have limited suppliers, which 

may increase our reliance on those suppliers. Supply chain 

interruptions, including shortages and transportation issues, and 

price increases can adversely affect us as well as our suppliers 

Additionally, the ongoing relevance of our brand may 

and franchisees whose performance may have a significant 

depend on the success of our sustainability initiatives, which 

impact on our results. Such shortages or disruptions could be 

require System-wide coordination and alignment. If we are not 

caused by factors beyond the control of our suppliers, 

Our success increasingly relies on the financial success 

and cooperation of our franchisees, including our developmental 
licensees and affiliates, yet we have limited influence over their 
operations. Our restaurant margins arise from two sources: fees 
from franchised restaurants (e.g., rent and royalties based on a 
percentage of sales) and, to a lesser degree, sales from 
Company-operated restaurants. Our franchisees manage their 
businesses independently, and therefore are responsible for the 
day-to-day operation of their restaurants. The revenues we 
realize from franchised restaurants are largely dependent on the 
ability of our franchisees to grow their sales. If our franchisees 
do not experience sales growth, our revenues and margins 
could be negatively affected as a result. Also, if sales trends 
worsen for franchisees, their financial results may deteriorate, 
which could result in, among other things, restaurant closures, 
or delayed or reduced payments to us. Our refranchising efforts 
will continue to increase that dependence and the potential 
effect of those factors. 

Our success also increasingly depends on the 
willingness and ability of our independent franchisees and 
affiliates to implement major initiatives, which may include 
financial investment, and to remain aligned with us on operating, 
promotional and capital-intensive reinvestment plans. 
Franchisees’ ability to contribute to the achievement of our plans 
is dependent in large part on the availability to them of funding 
at reasonable interest rates and may be negatively impacted by 
the financial markets in general or by the creditworthiness of our 
franchisees or the Company. Our operating performance could 
also be negatively affected if our franchisees experience food 
safety or other operational problems or project an image 
inconsistent with our brand and values, particularly if our 
contractual and other rights and remedies are limited, costly to 
exercise or subjected to litigation and potential delays. If 
franchisees do not successfully operate restaurants in a manner 
consistent with our required standards, our brand’s image and 
reputation could be harmed, which in turn could hurt our 
business and operating results. 

Our ownership mix also affects our results and financial 
condition. The decision to own restaurants or to operate under 
franchise or license agreements is driven by many factors 
whose interrelationship is complex and changing. Our ability to 
achieve the benefits of our refranchising strategy, which involves 
a significant percentage of franchised restaurants, including an 
increased number of restaurants run by developmental 
licensees and affiliates, depends on various factors. Those 
factors include whether we have effectively selected 

Effective succession planning is important to our long-

term success. Failure to effectively identify, develop and retain 
key personnel, recruit high-quality candidates and ensure 
smooth management and personnel transitions could disrupt 
our business and adversely affect our results. 

Our success depends in part on our System’s ability to 
recruit, motivate and retain a qualified workforce to work in our 
restaurants in an intensely competitive environment. Increased 
costs associated with recruiting, motivating and retaining 
qualified employees to work in our Company-operated 
restaurants could have a negative impact on our Company-
operated margins. Similar concerns apply to our franchisees. 

We are also impacted by the costs and other effects of 

compliance with U.S. and international regulations affecting our 
workforce, which includes our staff and employees working in 
our Company-operated restaurants. These regulations are 
increasingly focused on employment issues, including wage and 
hour, healthcare, immigration, retirement and other employee 
benefits and workplace practices. Our potential exposure to 
reputational and other harm regarding our workplace practices 
or conditions or those of our independent franchisees or 
suppliers (or perceptions thereof) could have a negative impact 
on consumer perceptions of us and our business. Additionally, 
economic action, such as boycotts, protests, work stoppages or 
campaigns by labor organizations, could adversely affect us 
(including our ability to recruit and retain talent) or the 
franchisees and suppliers that are also part of the McDonald's 
System and whose performance may have a material impact on 
our results. 

Information technology system failures or interruptions, or 
breaches of network security, may interrupt our operations. 

We are increasingly reliant on technological systems, 

such as point-of-sale and other in-store systems or platforms, 
technologies supporting McDonald’s delivery and digital 
solutions, as well as technologies that facilitate communication 
and collaboration internally, with affiliated entities, customers or 
independent third parties to conduct our business, including 
technology-enabled systems provided to us by third parties. Any 
failure of these systems could significantly impact our 
operations and customer experience and perceptions.

Despite the implementation of security measures, those 
technology systems and solutions could become vulnerable to 
damage, disability or failures due to theft, fire, power loss, 
telecommunications failure or other catastrophic events. Our 
increasing reliance on third party systems also present the risks 
faced by the third party’s business, including the operational, 
security and credit risks of those parties. If those systems were 
to fail or otherwise be unavailable, and we were unable to 
recover in a timely way, we could experience an interruption in 
our operations.

Furthermore, security breaches have from time to time 

occurred and may in the future occur involving our systems, the 
systems of the parties we communicate or collaborate with 
(including franchisees), or those of third party providers. These 
may include such things as unauthorized access, denial of 
service, computer viruses, introduction of malware or 
ransomware and other disruptive problems caused by hackers.  
Our information technology systems contain personal, financial 
and other information that is entrusted to us by our customers, 

4    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    5

 
our employees and other third parties, as well as financial, 
proprietary and other confidential information related to our 
business. An actual or alleged security breach could result in 
disruptions, shutdowns, theft or unauthorized disclosure of 
personal, financial, proprietary or other confidential information. 
The occurrence of any of these incidents could result in 
reputational damage, adverse publicity, loss of consumer 
confidence, reduced sales and profits, complications in 
executing our growth initiatives and criminal penalties or civil 
liabilities.

The global scope of our business subjects us to risks that 
could negatively affect our business. 

We encounter differing cultural, regulatory and economic 

environments within and among the more than 100 countries 
where McDonald’s restaurants operate, and our ability to 
achieve our business objectives depends on the System's 
success in these environments. Meeting customer expectations 
is complicated by the risks inherent in our global operating 
environment, and our global success is partially dependent on 
our System’s ability to leverage operating successes across 
markets. Planned initiatives may not have appeal across 
multiple markets with McDonald's customers and could drive 
unanticipated changes in customer perceptions and guest 
counts. 

Disruptions in operations or price volatility in a market 

can also result from governmental actions, such as price, 
foreign exchange or changes in trade-related tariffs or controls, 
government-mandated closure of our, our franchisees' or our 
suppliers’ operations, and asset seizures. The cost and 
disruption of responding to governmental investigations or 
inquiries, whether or not they have merit, may impact our results 
and could cause reputational or other harm. Our international 
success depends in part on the effectiveness of our strategies 
and brand-building initiatives to reduce our exposure to such 
governmental investigations or inquiries.  

Additionally, challenges and uncertainties are associated 

with operating in developing markets, which may entail a 
relatively higher risk of political instability, economic volatility, 
crime, corruption and social and ethnic unrest. Such challenges 
may be exacerbated in many cases by a lack of an independent 
and experienced judiciary and uncertainties in how local law is 
applied and enforced, including in areas most relevant to 
commercial transactions and foreign investment. An inability to 
manage effectively the risks associated with our international 
operations could have a material adverse effect on our business 
and financial condition. 

We may also face challenges and uncertainties in 
developed markets. For example, as a result of the U.K.'s 
decision to leave the European Union through a negotiated exit 
over a period of time, including its recent formal commencement 
of exit proceedings, it is possible that there will be increased 
regulatory complexities, as well as potential referenda in the 
U.K. and/or other European countries, that could cause 
uncertainty in European or worldwide economic conditions. In 
the short term, the decision created volatility in certain foreign 
currency exchange rates, and the resulting depression in those 
exchange rates may continue. Any of these effects, and others 
we cannot anticipate, could adversely affect our business, 
results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. 

Changes in tax laws and unanticipated tax liabilities could 
adversely affect the taxes we pay and our profitability. 

We are subject to income and other taxes in the U.S. and 

foreign jurisdictions, and our operations, plans and results are 
affected by tax and other initiatives around the world. In 

6    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

particular, we are affected by the impact of changes to tax laws 
or policy or related authoritative interpretations, including 
changes and uncertainties resulting from proposals for 
comprehensive or corporate tax reforms in the U.S. or 
elsewhere.  On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 
(“Tax Act”) was signed into law.  While we have estimated the 
effects of the Tax Act, we continue to refine those estimates with 
the possibility they could change, and those changes could be 
material.  We are also impacted by settlements of pending or 
any future adjustments proposed by taxing authorities inside 
and outside of the U.S. in connection with our tax audits, all of 
which will depend on their timing, nature and scope. Any 
increases in income tax rates, changes in income tax laws or 
unfavorable resolution of tax matters could have a material 
adverse impact on our financial results. 

Changes in commodity and other operating costs could 
adversely affect our results of operations. 

The profitability of our Company-operated restaurants 

depends in part on our ability to anticipate and react to changes 
in commodity costs, including food, paper, supplies, fuel, utilities 
and distribution, and other operating costs, including labor. Any 
volatility in certain commodity prices or fluctuation in labor costs 
could adversely affect our operating results by impacting 
restaurant profitability. The commodity markets for some of the 
ingredients we use, such as beef and chicken, are particularly 
volatile due to factors such as seasonal shifts, climate 
conditions, industry demand, international commodity markets, 
food safety concerns, product recalls and government 
regulation, all of which are beyond our control and, in many 
instances, unpredictable. We can only partially address future 
price risk through hedging and other activities, and therefore 
increases in commodity costs could have an adverse impact on 
our profitability.  

Increasing regulatory complexity may adversely affect 
restaurant operations and our financial results.

Our regulatory environment worldwide exposes us to 
complex compliance and similar risks that could affect our 
operations and results in material ways. In many of our markets, 
we are subject to increasing regulation, which has increased our 
cost of doing business. We are affected by the cost, compliance 
and other risks associated with the often conflicting and highly 
prescriptive regulations we face, including where inconsistent 
standards imposed by multiple governmental authorities can 
adversely affect our business and increase our exposure to 
litigation or governmental investigations or proceedings.

Our success depends in part on our ability to manage the 
impact of new, potential or changing regulations that can affect 
our business plans and operations. These regulations include 
product packaging, marketing, the nutritional content and safety 
of our food and other products, labeling and other disclosure 
practices. Compliance efforts with those regulations may be 
affected by ordinary variations in food preparation among our 
own restaurants and the need to rely on the accuracy and 
completeness of information from third-party suppliers 
(particularly given varying requirements and practices for testing 
and disclosure).

Additionally, we are working to manage the risks and costs 

to us, our franchisees and our supply chain of the effects of 
climate change, greenhouse gases, and diminishing energy and 
water resources. These risks include the increased public focus, 
including by governmental and nongovernmental organizations, 
on these and other environmental sustainability matters, such 
as packaging and waste, animal health and welfare, 
deforestation and land use. These risks also include the 
increased pressure to make commitments, set targets or 

establish additional goals and take actions to meet them. These 
risks could expose us to market, operational and execution 
costs or risks. If we are unable to effectively manage the risks 
associated with our complex regulatory environment, it could 
have a material adverse effect on our business and financial 
condition.

We are subject to increasing legal complexity and could be 
party to litigation that could adversely affect us.

Increasing legal complexity will continue to affect our 

operations and results in material ways. We could be subject to 
legal proceedings that may adversely affect our business, 
including class actions, administrative proceedings, government 
investigations, employment and personal injury claims, landlord/
tenant disputes, disputes with current or former suppliers, 
claims by current or former franchisees and intellectual property 
claims (including claims that we infringed another party’s 
trademarks, copyrights or patents).

Inconsistent standards imposed by governmental 

authorities can adversely affect our business and increase our 
exposure to regulatory proceedings or litigation.

Litigation involving our relationship with franchisees and 

the legal distinction between our franchisees and us for 
employment law purposes, if determined adversely, could 
increase costs, negatively impact the business prospects of our 
franchisees and subject us to incremental liability for their 
actions. Similarly, although our commercial relationships with 
our suppliers remain independent, there may be attempts to 
challenge that independence, which, if determined adversely, 
could also increase costs, negatively impact the business 
prospects of our suppliers, and subject us to incremental liability 
for their actions. We are also subject to legal and compliance 
risks and associated liability, such as in the areas of privacy and 
data collection, protection and management, as it relates to 
information we collect and share when we provide optional 
technology-related services and platforms to third parties.

Our operating results could also be affected by the 

following:

• 

The relative level of our defense costs, which vary from 

period to period depending on the number, nature and 

procedural status of pending proceedings;

• 

The cost and other effects of settlements, judgments or 

and products;

• 

Adverse results of pending or future litigation, including 

litigation challenging the composition and preparation of our 

products, or the appropriateness or accuracy of our 

marketing or other communication practices; and

• 

The scope and terms of insurance or indemnification 

protections that we may have.

A judgment significantly in excess of any applicable 

insurance coverage or third party indemnity could materially 
adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations. 
Further, adverse publicity resulting from these claims may hurt 
our business.

We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual 
property or adequately ensure that we are not infringing the 
intellectual property of others, which could harm the value 
of the McDonald’s brand and our business.

The success of our business depends on our continued 

ability to use our existing trademarks and service marks in order 
to increase brand awareness and further develop our branded 
products in both domestic and international markets. We rely on 

a combination of trademarks, copyrights, service marks, trade 

secrets, patents and other intellectual property rights to protect 

our brand and branded products.

We have registered certain trademarks and have other 

trademark registrations pending in the U.S. and certain foreign 

jurisdictions. The trademarks that we currently use have not 

been registered in all of the countries outside of the U.S. in 

which we do business or may do business in the future and may 

never be registered in all of these countries. The steps we have 

taken to protect our intellectual property in the U.S. and foreign 

countries may not be adequate. In addition, the steps we have 

taken may not adequately ensure that we do not infringe the 

intellectual property of others, and third parties may claim 

infringement by us in the future. In particular, we may be 

involved in intellectual property claims, including often 

aggressive or opportunistic attempts to enforce patents used in 

information technology systems, which might affect our 

operations and results. Any claim of infringement, whether or 

not it has merit, could be time-consuming, result in costly 

litigation and harm our business.

We cannot ensure that franchisees and other third parties 

who hold licenses to our intellectual property will not take 

actions that hurt the value of our intellectual property.

Changes in accounting standards or the recognition of 

impairment or other charges may adversely affect our 

future operations and results.

New accounting standards or changes in financial 

reporting requirements, accounting principles or practices, 

including with respect to our critical accounting estimates, could 

adversely affect our future results. We may also be affected by 

the nature and timing of decisions about underperforming 

markets or assets, including decisions that result in impairment 

or other charges that reduce our earnings. In assessing the 

recoverability of our long-lived assets, we consider changes in 

economic conditions and make assumptions regarding 

estimated future cash flows and other factors. These estimates 

are highly subjective and can be significantly impacted by many 

factors such as global and local business and economic 

conditions, operating costs, inflation, competition, consumer and 

demographic trends, and our restructuring activities. If our 

estimates or underlying assumptions change in the future, we 

may be required to record impairment charges. If we experience 

A decrease in our credit ratings or an increase in our 

funding costs could adversely affect our profitability.

Our credit ratings may be negatively affected by our 

results of operations or changes in our debt levels. As a result, 

our interest expense, the availability of acceptable 

counterparties, our ability to obtain funding on favorable terms, 

collateral requirements and our operating or financial flexibility 

could all be negatively affected, especially if lenders impose 

new operating or financial covenants.

Our operations may also be impacted by regulations 

affecting capital flows, financial markets or financial institutions, 

which can limit our ability to manage and deploy our liquidity or 

increase our funding costs. If any of these events were to occur, 

they could have a material adverse effect on our business and 

financial condition.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    7

consent decrees, which may require us to make disclosures 

any such changes, they could have a significant adverse effect 

or take other actions that may affect perceptions of our brand 

on our reported results for the affected periods.

 
our employees and other third parties, as well as financial, 

proprietary and other confidential information related to our 

business. An actual or alleged security breach could result in 

disruptions, shutdowns, theft or unauthorized disclosure of 

particular, we are affected by the impact of changes to tax laws 

or policy or related authoritative interpretations, including 

changes and uncertainties resulting from proposals for 

comprehensive or corporate tax reforms in the U.S. or 

personal, financial, proprietary or other confidential information. 

elsewhere.  On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act 

The occurrence of any of these incidents could result in 

reputational damage, adverse publicity, loss of consumer 

confidence, reduced sales and profits, complications in 

(“Tax Act”) was signed into law.  While we have estimated the 

effects of the Tax Act, we continue to refine those estimates with 

the possibility they could change, and those changes could be 

executing our growth initiatives and criminal penalties or civil 

material.  We are also impacted by settlements of pending or 

liabilities.

The global scope of our business subjects us to risks that 

could negatively affect our business. 

We encounter differing cultural, regulatory and economic 

environments within and among the more than 100 countries 

where McDonald’s restaurants operate, and our ability to 

achieve our business objectives depends on the System's 

success in these environments. Meeting customer expectations 

is complicated by the risks inherent in our global operating 

any future adjustments proposed by taxing authorities inside 

and outside of the U.S. in connection with our tax audits, all of 

which will depend on their timing, nature and scope. Any 

increases in income tax rates, changes in income tax laws or 

unfavorable resolution of tax matters could have a material 

adverse impact on our financial results. 

Changes in commodity and other operating costs could 

adversely affect our results of operations. 

The profitability of our Company-operated restaurants 

environment, and our global success is partially dependent on 

depends in part on our ability to anticipate and react to changes 

our System’s ability to leverage operating successes across 

in commodity costs, including food, paper, supplies, fuel, utilities 

markets. Planned initiatives may not have appeal across 

and distribution, and other operating costs, including labor. Any 

multiple markets with McDonald's customers and could drive 

volatility in certain commodity prices or fluctuation in labor costs 

unanticipated changes in customer perceptions and guest 

could adversely affect our operating results by impacting 

counts. 

Disruptions in operations or price volatility in a market 

can also result from governmental actions, such as price, 

foreign exchange or changes in trade-related tariffs or controls, 

government-mandated closure of our, our franchisees' or our 

suppliers’ operations, and asset seizures. The cost and 

disruption of responding to governmental investigations or 

inquiries, whether or not they have merit, may impact our results 

and could cause reputational or other harm. Our international 

success depends in part on the effectiveness of our strategies 

and brand-building initiatives to reduce our exposure to such 

governmental investigations or inquiries.  

restaurant profitability. The commodity markets for some of the 

ingredients we use, such as beef and chicken, are particularly 

volatile due to factors such as seasonal shifts, climate 

conditions, industry demand, international commodity markets, 

food safety concerns, product recalls and government 

regulation, all of which are beyond our control and, in many 

instances, unpredictable. We can only partially address future 

price risk through hedging and other activities, and therefore 

increases in commodity costs could have an adverse impact on 

our profitability.  

Increasing regulatory complexity may adversely affect 

restaurant operations and our financial results.

Additionally, challenges and uncertainties are associated 

Our regulatory environment worldwide exposes us to 

with operating in developing markets, which may entail a 

complex compliance and similar risks that could affect our 

relatively higher risk of political instability, economic volatility, 

operations and results in material ways. In many of our markets, 

crime, corruption and social and ethnic unrest. Such challenges 

we are subject to increasing regulation, which has increased our 

may be exacerbated in many cases by a lack of an independent 

cost of doing business. We are affected by the cost, compliance 

and experienced judiciary and uncertainties in how local law is 

and other risks associated with the often conflicting and highly 

applied and enforced, including in areas most relevant to 

prescriptive regulations we face, including where inconsistent 

commercial transactions and foreign investment. An inability to 

standards imposed by multiple governmental authorities can 

manage effectively the risks associated with our international 

adversely affect our business and increase our exposure to 

operations could have a material adverse effect on our business 

litigation or governmental investigations or proceedings.

and financial condition. 

We may also face challenges and uncertainties in 

developed markets. For example, as a result of the U.K.'s 

Our success depends in part on our ability to manage the 

impact of new, potential or changing regulations that can affect 

our business plans and operations. These regulations include 

decision to leave the European Union through a negotiated exit 

product packaging, marketing, the nutritional content and safety 

over a period of time, including its recent formal commencement 

of our food and other products, labeling and other disclosure 

of exit proceedings, it is possible that there will be increased 

regulatory complexities, as well as potential referenda in the 

U.K. and/or other European countries, that could cause 

practices. Compliance efforts with those regulations may be 

affected by ordinary variations in food preparation among our 

own restaurants and the need to rely on the accuracy and 

uncertainty in European or worldwide economic conditions. In 

completeness of information from third-party suppliers 

the short term, the decision created volatility in certain foreign 

(particularly given varying requirements and practices for testing 

currency exchange rates, and the resulting depression in those 

and disclosure).

exchange rates may continue. Any of these effects, and others 

we cannot anticipate, could adversely affect our business, 

results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. 

Changes in tax laws and unanticipated tax liabilities could 

adversely affect the taxes we pay and our profitability. 

We are subject to income and other taxes in the U.S. and 

foreign jurisdictions, and our operations, plans and results are 

affected by tax and other initiatives around the world. In 

Additionally, we are working to manage the risks and costs 

to us, our franchisees and our supply chain of the effects of 

climate change, greenhouse gases, and diminishing energy and 

water resources. These risks include the increased public focus, 

including by governmental and nongovernmental organizations, 

on these and other environmental sustainability matters, such 

as packaging and waste, animal health and welfare, 

deforestation and land use. These risks also include the 

increased pressure to make commitments, set targets or 

establish additional goals and take actions to meet them. These 
risks could expose us to market, operational and execution 
costs or risks. If we are unable to effectively manage the risks 
associated with our complex regulatory environment, it could 
have a material adverse effect on our business and financial 
condition.

We are subject to increasing legal complexity and could be 
party to litigation that could adversely affect us.

Increasing legal complexity will continue to affect our 
operations and results in material ways. We could be subject to 
legal proceedings that may adversely affect our business, 
including class actions, administrative proceedings, government 
investigations, employment and personal injury claims, landlord/
tenant disputes, disputes with current or former suppliers, 
claims by current or former franchisees and intellectual property 
claims (including claims that we infringed another party’s 
trademarks, copyrights or patents).

Inconsistent standards imposed by governmental 
authorities can adversely affect our business and increase our 
exposure to regulatory proceedings or litigation.

Litigation involving our relationship with franchisees and 

the legal distinction between our franchisees and us for 
employment law purposes, if determined adversely, could 
increase costs, negatively impact the business prospects of our 
franchisees and subject us to incremental liability for their 
actions. Similarly, although our commercial relationships with 
our suppliers remain independent, there may be attempts to 
challenge that independence, which, if determined adversely, 
could also increase costs, negatively impact the business 
prospects of our suppliers, and subject us to incremental liability 
for their actions. We are also subject to legal and compliance 
risks and associated liability, such as in the areas of privacy and 
data collection, protection and management, as it relates to 
information we collect and share when we provide optional 
technology-related services and platforms to third parties.

Our operating results could also be affected by the 

following:

• 

• 

• 

• 

The relative level of our defense costs, which vary from 
period to period depending on the number, nature and 
procedural status of pending proceedings;

The cost and other effects of settlements, judgments or 
consent decrees, which may require us to make disclosures 
or take other actions that may affect perceptions of our brand 
and products;

Adverse results of pending or future litigation, including 
litigation challenging the composition and preparation of our 
products, or the appropriateness or accuracy of our 
marketing or other communication practices; and

The scope and terms of insurance or indemnification 
protections that we may have.

A judgment significantly in excess of any applicable 

insurance coverage or third party indemnity could materially 
adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations. 
Further, adverse publicity resulting from these claims may hurt 
our business.

We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual 
property or adequately ensure that we are not infringing the 
intellectual property of others, which could harm the value 
of the McDonald’s brand and our business.

The success of our business depends on our continued 

ability to use our existing trademarks and service marks in order 
to increase brand awareness and further develop our branded 
products in both domestic and international markets. We rely on 

a combination of trademarks, copyrights, service marks, trade 
secrets, patents and other intellectual property rights to protect 
our brand and branded products.

We have registered certain trademarks and have other 

trademark registrations pending in the U.S. and certain foreign 
jurisdictions. The trademarks that we currently use have not 
been registered in all of the countries outside of the U.S. in 
which we do business or may do business in the future and may 
never be registered in all of these countries. The steps we have 
taken to protect our intellectual property in the U.S. and foreign 
countries may not be adequate. In addition, the steps we have 
taken may not adequately ensure that we do not infringe the 
intellectual property of others, and third parties may claim 
infringement by us in the future. In particular, we may be 
involved in intellectual property claims, including often 
aggressive or opportunistic attempts to enforce patents used in 
information technology systems, which might affect our 
operations and results. Any claim of infringement, whether or 
not it has merit, could be time-consuming, result in costly 
litigation and harm our business.

We cannot ensure that franchisees and other third parties 

who hold licenses to our intellectual property will not take 
actions that hurt the value of our intellectual property.

Changes in accounting standards or the recognition of 
impairment or other charges may adversely affect our 
future operations and results.

New accounting standards or changes in financial 

reporting requirements, accounting principles or practices, 
including with respect to our critical accounting estimates, could 
adversely affect our future results. We may also be affected by 
the nature and timing of decisions about underperforming 
markets or assets, including decisions that result in impairment 
or other charges that reduce our earnings. In assessing the 
recoverability of our long-lived assets, we consider changes in 
economic conditions and make assumptions regarding 
estimated future cash flows and other factors. These estimates 
are highly subjective and can be significantly impacted by many 
factors such as global and local business and economic 
conditions, operating costs, inflation, competition, consumer and 
demographic trends, and our restructuring activities. If our 
estimates or underlying assumptions change in the future, we 
may be required to record impairment charges. If we experience 
any such changes, they could have a significant adverse effect 
on our reported results for the affected periods.

A decrease in our credit ratings or an increase in our 
funding costs could adversely affect our profitability.

Our credit ratings may be negatively affected by our 
results of operations or changes in our debt levels. As a result, 
our interest expense, the availability of acceptable 
counterparties, our ability to obtain funding on favorable terms, 
collateral requirements and our operating or financial flexibility 
could all be negatively affected, especially if lenders impose 
new operating or financial covenants.

Our operations may also be impacted by regulations 
affecting capital flows, financial markets or financial institutions, 
which can limit our ability to manage and deploy our liquidity or 
increase our funding costs. If any of these events were to occur, 
they could have a material adverse effect on our business and 
financial condition.

6    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    7

 
disclosures, as well as other matters common to an extensive 
restaurant business such as that of the Company.

Intellectual Property

The Company has registered trademarks and service marks, 
patents and copyrights, some of which are of material importance 
to the Company’s business. From time to time, the Company may 
become involved in litigation to protect its intellectual property and 
defend against the alleged use of third party intellectual property. 

  Government Regulations

Local and national governments have adopted laws and 
regulations involving various aspects of the restaurant business 
including, but not limited to, advertising, franchising, health, safety, 
environment, zoning, employment and taxation. The Company 
strives to comply with all applicable existing statutory and 
administrative rules and cannot predict the effect on its operations 
from the issuance of additional requirements in the future.

ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Trading volatility and price of our common stock may be 
adversely affected by many factors.

Many factors affect the volatility and price of our common 

stock in addition to our operating results and prospects. The 
most important of these factors, some of which are outside our 
control, are the following:

• 

The unpredictable nature of global economic and market 
conditions;

•  Governmental action or inaction in light of key indicators of 
economic activity or events that can significantly influence 
financial markets, particularly in the U.S., which is the 
principal trading market for our common stock, and media 
reports and commentary about economic or other matters, 
even when the matter in question does not directly relate to 
our business;

• 

• 

• 

Trading activity in our common stock or trading activity in 
derivative instruments with respect to our common stock or 
debt securities, which can be affected by market 
commentary (including commentary that may be unreliable 
or incomplete); unauthorized disclosures about our 
performance, plans or expectations about our business; our 
actual performance and creditworthiness; investor 
confidence, driven in part by expectations about our 
performance; actions by shareholders and others seeking to 
influence our business strategies; portfolio transactions in 
our stock by significant shareholders; or trading activity that 
results from the ordinary course rebalancing of stock indices 
in which McDonald’s may be included, such as the S&P 500 
Index and the Dow Jones Industrial Average;

The impact of our stock repurchase program or dividend 
rate; and

The impact on our results of corporate actions and market 
and third-party perceptions and assessments of such 
actions, such as those we may take from time to time as we 
implement our strategies in light of changing business, legal 
and tax considerations and evolve our corporate structure.

Events such as severe weather conditions, natural 
disasters, hostilities and social unrest, among others, can 
adversely affect our results and prospects.

Severe weather conditions, natural disasters, hostilities 

and social unrest, terrorist activities, health epidemics or 
pandemics (or expectations about them) can adversely affect 
consumer spending and confidence levels and supply 
availability and costs, as well as the local operations in impacted 
markets, all of which can affect our results and prospects. Our 
receipt of proceeds under any insurance we maintain with 
respect to some of these risks may be delayed or the proceeds 
may be insufficient to cover our losses fully.

ITEM 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

ITEM 2. Properties

The Company owns and leases real estate primarily in connection 
with its restaurant business. The Company identifies and develops 
sites that offer convenience to customers and long-term sales and 
profit potential to the Company. To assess potential, the Company 
analyzes traffic and walking patterns, census data and other 
relevant data. The Company’s experience and access to 
advanced technology aid in evaluating this information. The 
Company generally owns the land and building or secures long-
term leases for conventional franchised and Company-operated 
restaurant sites, which ensures long-term occupancy rights and 

8    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

helps control related costs. Restaurant profitability for both the 
Company and franchisees is important; therefore, ongoing efforts 
are made to control average development costs through 
construction and design efficiencies, standardization and by 
leveraging the Company’s global sourcing network. Additional 
information about the Company’s properties is included in 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
Results of Operations in Part II, Item 7, pages 14 through 29 and 
in Financial statements and supplementary data in Part II, Item 8, 
pages 30 through 50 of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings

The Company has pending a number of lawsuits that have been 
filed in various jurisdictions. These lawsuits cover a broad variety 
of allegations spanning the Company’s entire business. The 
following is a brief description of the more significant types of 
claims and lawsuits. In addition, the Company is subject to various 
national and local laws and regulations that impact various 
aspects of its business, as discussed below. While the Company 
does not believe that any such claims, lawsuits or regulations will 
have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results 
of operations, unfavorable rulings could occur. Were an 
unfavorable ruling to occur, there exists the possibility of a material 
adverse impact on net income for the period in which the ruling 
occurs or for future periods.

  Franchising

A substantial number of McDonald’s restaurants are franchised to 
independent owner/operators under contractual arrangements 
with the Company. In the course of the franchise relationship, 
occasional disputes arise between the Company and its current or 
former franchisees relating to a broad range of subjects including, 
but not limited to, quality, service and cleanliness issues, menu 
pricing, contentions regarding grants or terminations of franchises, 
delinquent payments of rents and fees, and franchisee claims for 
additional franchises or rewrites of franchises. Additionally, 
occasional disputes arise between the Company and individuals 
who claim they should have been granted a McDonald’s franchise 
or who challenge the legal distinction between the Company and 
its franchisees for employment law purposes.

  Suppliers 

The Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries generally do not 
supply food, paper or related items to any McDonald’s restaurants. 
The Company relies upon numerous independent suppliers, 
including service providers, that are required to meet and maintain 
the Company’s high standards and specifications. On occasion, 
disputes arise between the Company and its suppliers (or former 
suppliers) which include, for example, compliance with product 
specifications and the Company’s business relationship with 
suppliers. In addition, disputes occasionally arise on a number of 
issues between the Company and individuals or entities who claim 
that they should be (or should have been) granted the opportunity 
to supply products or services to the Company’s restaurants.

  Employees

Hundreds of thousands of people are employed by the Company 
and in restaurants owned and operated by subsidiaries of the 
Company. In addition, thousands of people from time to time seek 
employment in such restaurants. In the ordinary course of 
business, disputes arise regarding hiring, termination, promotion 
and pay practices, including wage and hour disputes, alleged 
discrimination and compliance with labor and employment laws.

  Customers

Restaurants owned by subsidiaries of the Company regularly 
serve a broad segment of the public. In so doing, disputes arise as 
to products, service, incidents, advertising, nutritional and other 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    9

 
 
disclosures, as well as other matters common to an extensive 
restaurant business such as that of the Company.

Intellectual Property

The Company has registered trademarks and service marks, 
patents and copyrights, some of which are of material importance 
to the Company’s business. From time to time, the Company may 
become involved in litigation to protect its intellectual property and 
defend against the alleged use of third party intellectual property. 

  Government Regulations

Local and national governments have adopted laws and 
regulations involving various aspects of the restaurant business 
including, but not limited to, advertising, franchising, health, safety, 
environment, zoning, employment and taxation. The Company 
strives to comply with all applicable existing statutory and 
administrative rules and cannot predict the effect on its operations 
from the issuance of additional requirements in the future.

ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

Trading volatility and price of our common stock may be 

adversely affected by many factors.

Many factors affect the volatility and price of our common 

stock in addition to our operating results and prospects. The 

most important of these factors, some of which are outside our 

control, are the following:

• 

The unpredictable nature of global economic and market 

conditions;

helps control related costs. Restaurant profitability for both the 

Company and franchisees is important; therefore, ongoing efforts 

are made to control average development costs through 

construction and design efficiencies, standardization and by 

leveraging the Company’s global sourcing network. Additional 

information about the Company’s properties is included in 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
Results of Operations in Part II, Item 7, pages 14 through 29 and 
in Financial statements and supplementary data in Part II, Item 8, 

•  Governmental action or inaction in light of key indicators of 

pages 30 through 50 of this Form 10-K.

economic activity or events that can significantly influence 

financial markets, particularly in the U.S., which is the 

principal trading market for our common stock, and media 

ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings

reports and commentary about economic or other matters, 

The Company has pending a number of lawsuits that have been 

even when the matter in question does not directly relate to 

filed in various jurisdictions. These lawsuits cover a broad variety 

our business;

• 

Trading activity in our common stock or trading activity in 

derivative instruments with respect to our common stock or 

debt securities, which can be affected by market 

commentary (including commentary that may be unreliable 

or incomplete); unauthorized disclosures about our 

performance, plans or expectations about our business; our 

actual performance and creditworthiness; investor 

confidence, driven in part by expectations about our 

performance; actions by shareholders and others seeking to 

influence our business strategies; portfolio transactions in 

our stock by significant shareholders; or trading activity that 

results from the ordinary course rebalancing of stock indices 

in which McDonald’s may be included, such as the S&P 500 

Index and the Dow Jones Industrial Average;

The impact of our stock repurchase program or dividend 

• 

• 

rate; and

The impact on our results of corporate actions and market 

and third-party perceptions and assessments of such 

actions, such as those we may take from time to time as we 

implement our strategies in light of changing business, legal 

and tax considerations and evolve our corporate structure.

Events such as severe weather conditions, natural 

disasters, hostilities and social unrest, among others, can 

adversely affect our results and prospects.

Severe weather conditions, natural disasters, hostilities 

and social unrest, terrorist activities, health epidemics or 

pandemics (or expectations about them) can adversely affect 

consumer spending and confidence levels and supply 

availability and costs, as well as the local operations in impacted 

markets, all of which can affect our results and prospects. Our 

receipt of proceeds under any insurance we maintain with 

respect to some of these risks may be delayed or the proceeds 

may be insufficient to cover our losses fully.

ITEM 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

ITEM 2. Properties

The Company owns and leases real estate primarily in connection 

with its restaurant business. The Company identifies and develops 

sites that offer convenience to customers and long-term sales and 

profit potential to the Company. To assess potential, the Company 

analyzes traffic and walking patterns, census data and other 

relevant data. The Company’s experience and access to 

advanced technology aid in evaluating this information. The 

Company generally owns the land and building or secures long-

term leases for conventional franchised and Company-operated 

restaurant sites, which ensures long-term occupancy rights and 

8    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

of allegations spanning the Company’s entire business. The 

following is a brief description of the more significant types of 

claims and lawsuits. In addition, the Company is subject to various 

national and local laws and regulations that impact various 

aspects of its business, as discussed below. While the Company 
does not believe that any such claims, lawsuits or regulations will 
have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results 

of operations, unfavorable rulings could occur. Were an 

unfavorable ruling to occur, there exists the possibility of a material 

adverse impact on net income for the period in which the ruling 

occurs or for future periods.

  Franchising

A substantial number of McDonald’s restaurants are franchised to 

independent owner/operators under contractual arrangements 

with the Company. In the course of the franchise relationship, 

occasional disputes arise between the Company and its current or 
former franchisees relating to a broad range of subjects including, 

but not limited to, quality, service and cleanliness issues, menu 

pricing, contentions regarding grants or terminations of franchises, 
delinquent payments of rents and fees, and franchisee claims for 

additional franchises or rewrites of franchises. Additionally, 

occasional disputes arise between the Company and individuals 

who claim they should have been granted a McDonald’s franchise 
or who challenge the legal distinction between the Company and 

its franchisees for employment law purposes.

  Suppliers 

The Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries generally do not 

supply food, paper or related items to any McDonald’s restaurants. 

The Company relies upon numerous independent suppliers, 

including service providers, that are required to meet and maintain 

the Company’s high standards and specifications. On occasion, 

disputes arise between the Company and its suppliers (or former 

suppliers) which include, for example, compliance with product 

specifications and the Company’s business relationship with 

suppliers. In addition, disputes occasionally arise on a number of 
issues between the Company and individuals or entities who claim 
that they should be (or should have been) granted the opportunity 

to supply products or services to the Company’s restaurants.

  Employees

Hundreds of thousands of people are employed by the Company 

and in restaurants owned and operated by subsidiaries of the 

Company. In addition, thousands of people from time to time seek 

employment in such restaurants. In the ordinary course of 

business, disputes arise regarding hiring, termination, promotion 

and pay practices, including wage and hour disputes, alleged 

discrimination and compliance with labor and employment laws.

  Customers

Restaurants owned by subsidiaries of the Company regularly 

serve a broad segment of the public. In so doing, disputes arise as 

to products, service, incidents, advertising, nutritional and other 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    9

 
 
Catherine Hoovel, 46, is Corporate Vice President - Chief 
Accounting Officer, a position she has held since October 2016.  
Ms. Hoovel served as Controller for the McDonald's restaurants 
owned and operated by McDonald's USA from April 2014 to 
September 2016. Prior to that time, Ms. Hoovel served as a Senior 
Director of Finance from February 2012 to April 2014 and was a 
Divisional Director from August 2010 to February 2012. Ms. 
Hoovel has served the Company for nearly 22 years.

Christopher Kempczinski, 49, is President, McDonald’s USA, 

a position he has held since January 2017.  Prior to that, Mr. 
Kempczinski served as Corporate Executive Vice President - 
Strategy, Business Development and Innovation, from October 
2015 through December 2016.  Mr. Kempczinski joined the 
Company from Kraft Heinz, a manufacturer and marketer of food 
and beverage products, where he most recently served as 
Executive Vice President of Growth Initiatives and President of 
Kraft International from December 2014 to September 2015. Prior 
to that, Mr. Kempczinski served as President of Kraft Canada from 
July 2012 through December 2014 and as Senior Vice President - 
U.S. Grocery from December 2008 to July 2012.  Mr. Kempczinski 
has been with the Company for over 2 years.

Jerome Krulewitch, 53, is Corporate Executive Vice President, 

General Counsel and Secretary, a position he has held since 
March 2017.  From May 2011 until March 2017, Mr. Krulewitch 
served as Corporate Senior Vice President - Chief Counsel, 
Global Operations.  Prior to that, Mr. Krulewitch was Corporate 
Senior Vice President - General Counsel, The Americas from 
September 2010 to April 2011.  Mr. Krulewitch has served the 
Company for nearly 16 years.  

Silvia Lagnado, 54, is Corporate Executive Vice President, 

Global Chief Marketing Officer, a position she has held since 
August 2015. Ms. Lagnado served as Chief Marketing Officer of 
Bacardi Limited, a spirits company, from September 2010 to 
October 2012. Prior to that, Ms. Lagnado served more than 20 
years in positions of increased responsibility at Unilever.  Ms. 
Lagnado has been with the Company for over 2 years.

Kevin Ozan, 54, is Corporate Executive Vice President and 
Chief Financial Officer, a position he has held since March 2015. 
From February 2008 through February 2015, Mr. Ozan served as 
Corporate Senior Vice President - Controller. Mr. Ozan has served 
the Company for 20 years. 

Jim Sappington, 59, is Corporate Executive Vice President, 
Operations and Technology Systems, a position he has held since 
March 2015. From January 2013 through February 2015, Mr. 
Sappington served as Corporate Senior Vice President-Chief 
Information Officer. Prior to that time, Mr. Sappington served as 
U.S. Vice President - General Manager for the Northwest Region 
from September 2010 to December 2012. Mr. Sappington has 
been with the Company for 30 years.

PART II

ITEM 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
Equity Securities

MARKET INFORMATION AND DIVIDEND POLICY

The Company’s common stock trades under the symbol MCD and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange in the U.S. The following table 
sets forth the common stock price ranges on the New York Stock Exchange and dividends declared per common share:

Dollars per share

High

Low

Dividend

High

Low

Dividend

Quarter:
First
Second
Third
Fourth
Year

2017

1.95 *

0.94

0.94

—

3.83

130.19

155.46

161.72

175.78

175.78

118.18

128.65

151.77

155.80

118.18

126.96

131.96

128.60

124.00

131.96

112.71

116.08

113.96

110.33

110.33

2016

0.89

0.89

—

3.61

1.83 *

* 

Includes a $0.94 and $0.89 per share dividend declared and paid in third quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively, and a $1.01 and $0.94 per share dividend 

declared in third quarter and paid in fourth quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively.

The number of shareholders of record and beneficial owners of the Company’s common stock as of January 31, 2018 was estimated to 

be 1,781,818.

Given the Company’s returns on incremental invested capital and assets, management believes it is prudent to reinvest in the business 

in markets with acceptable returns and/or opportunity for long-term growth and use excess cash flow to return cash to shareholders through 
dividends and share repurchases. The Company has paid dividends on common stock for 42 consecutive years through 2017 and has 
increased the dividend amount at least once every year. As in the past, future dividend amounts will be considered after reviewing 
profitability expectations and financing needs, and will be declared at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors.

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The following table presents information related to repurchases of common stock the Company made during the quarter ended 
December 31, 2017*:

Period

October 1-31, 2017
November 1-30, 2017
December 1-31, 2017
   Total

Total Number of

Shares Purchased

Average Price

Paid per Share

Total Number of

Shares Purchased as

Part of Publicly

Announced Plans or

Programs(1)

Approximate Dollar

Value of Shares

that May Yet

Be Purchased Under

the Plans or Programs(1)

3,803,997

254,210

800

4,059,007

162.45

167.64

173.25

162.78

3,803,997

254,210

800

4,059,007

$12,304,717,273

12,262,100,551

12,261,961,951

* 

Subject to applicable law, the Company may repurchase shares directly in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions, or pursuant to derivative 

instruments and plans complying with Rule 10b5-1, among other types of transactions and arrangements.

(1)  On July 27, 2017, the Company's Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program, effective July 28, 2017, that authorized the purchase of up to $15 

billion of the Company's outstanding common stock with no specified expiration date.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following are the Executive Officers of our Company (as of the 
date of this filing):

Ian Borden, 49, is President - Foundational Markets, a 

position he has held since July 2015. From January 2014 through 
June 2015, Mr. Borden served as Vice President and Chief 
Financial Officer - McDonald’s Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa. 
Prior to that time, Mr. Borden served as Regional Vice President of 
Europe’s East Division from April 2011 to December 2013 and as 
Managing Director - McDonald’s Ukraine from December 2007 to 
December 2013. He has served the Company for 23 years.

Stephen Easterbrook, 50, is President and Chief Executive 

Officer, a position he has held since March 2015. Mr. Easterbrook 
was also elected a Director of the Company effective March 2015. 
From May 2014 through February 2015, Mr. Easterbrook served 
as Corporate Senior Executive Vice President and Global Chief 
Brand Officer.  From June 2013 through April 2014, Mr. 
Easterbrook served as Corporate Executive Vice President and 
Global Chief Brand Officer. From September 2012 through May 
2013, Mr. Easterbrook served as the Chief Executive Officer of 
Wagamama Limited, a pan-Asian restaurant chain, and from 
September 2011 to September 2012, he served as the Chief 
Executive Officer of PizzaExpress Limited, an Italian restaurant 
brand. From December 2010 to September 2011, he held the 
position of President, McDonald’s Europe.  Prior to that, Mr. 
Easterbrook served in a number of roles with the Company.  Mr. 
Easterbrook has served the Company for 24 years.

Joseph Erlinger, 44, is President - High Growth Markets, a 
position he has held since September 2016.   Prior to that, Mr. 
Erlinger served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - 
High Growth Markets from March 2015 to January 2017 (serving 
in dual roles from September 2016 through January 2017), as 
Managing Director of McDonald’s Korea from April 2013 to 
January 2016 (serving in dual roles from March 2015 through 
January 2016), and US Vice President - GM for the Indianapolis 
region from December 2010 to March 2013.  He has served the 
Company for nearly 16 years.

David Fairhurst, 49, is Corporate Executive Vice President & 
Chief People Officer, a position he has held since October 2015. 
Mr. Fairhurst served as Corporate Senior Vice President, 
International Human Resources and Strategy from April 2015 to 
September 2015. Prior to that time, he served as Europe Vice 
President - Chief People Officer from January 2011 to March 
2015. Mr. Fairhurst has served the Company for 12 years.

Robert Gibbs, 46, is Corporate Executive Vice President and 
Global Chief Communications Officer, a position he has held since 
June 2015. Mr. Gibbs joined the Company from The Incite Agency, 
a strategic communications advisory firm that he co-founded in 
2013. Prior to that, Mr. Gibbs held several senior advisory roles in 
the White House, serving as the White House Press Secretary 
beginning in 2009, then as Senior Advisor in the 2012 re-election 
campaign.  Mr. Gibbs has been with the Company for nearly 3 
years.

Douglas Goare, 65, has served as President, International 

Lead Markets since July 2015 and in October 2016, he assumed 
responsibility as Chief Restaurant Officer. From October 2011 
through June 2015, Mr. Goare served as President, McDonald’s 
Europe. Prior to that time, Mr. Goare served as Corporate 
Executive Vice President of Supply Chain and Development from 
February 2011 through September 2011.  In addition, Mr. Goare 
assumed responsibility for Development in December 2010 and 
served as Corporate Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and 
Development through January 2011.  Mr. Goare has served the 
Company for 39 years.

10    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    11

 
 
 
Catherine Hoovel, 46, is Corporate Vice President - Chief 

Accounting Officer, a position she has held since October 2016.  

Ms. Hoovel served as Controller for the McDonald's restaurants 

owned and operated by McDonald's USA from April 2014 to 

September 2016. Prior to that time, Ms. Hoovel served as a Senior 

Director of Finance from February 2012 to April 2014 and was a 

Divisional Director from August 2010 to February 2012. Ms. 

Hoovel has served the Company for nearly 22 years.

Christopher Kempczinski, 49, is President, McDonald’s USA, 

a position he has held since January 2017.  Prior to that, Mr. 

Kempczinski served as Corporate Executive Vice President - 

Strategy, Business Development and Innovation, from October 

2015 through December 2016.  Mr. Kempczinski joined the 

Company from Kraft Heinz, a manufacturer and marketer of food 

and beverage products, where he most recently served as 

Executive Vice President of Growth Initiatives and President of 

Kraft International from December 2014 to September 2015. Prior 
to that, Mr. Kempczinski served as President of Kraft Canada from 
July 2012 through December 2014 and as Senior Vice President - 
U.S. Grocery from December 2008 to July 2012.  Mr. Kempczinski 

has been with the Company for over 2 years.

Jerome Krulewitch, 53, is Corporate Executive Vice President, 

General Counsel and Secretary, a position he has held since 

March 2017.  From May 2011 until March 2017, Mr. Krulewitch 

served as Corporate Senior Vice President - Chief Counsel, 

Global Operations.  Prior to that, Mr. Krulewitch was Corporate 

Senior Vice President - General Counsel, The Americas from 

September 2010 to April 2011.  Mr. Krulewitch has served the 

Company for nearly 16 years.  

Silvia Lagnado, 54, is Corporate Executive Vice President, 

Global Chief Marketing Officer, a position she has held since 

August 2015. Ms. Lagnado served as Chief Marketing Officer of 

Bacardi Limited, a spirits company, from September 2010 to 

October 2012. Prior to that, Ms. Lagnado served more than 20 

years in positions of increased responsibility at Unilever.  Ms. 

Lagnado has been with the Company for over 2 years.

Kevin Ozan, 54, is Corporate Executive Vice President and 

Chief Financial Officer, a position he has held since March 2015. 
From February 2008 through February 2015, Mr. Ozan served as 
Corporate Senior Vice President - Controller. Mr. Ozan has served 

the Company for 20 years. 

Jim Sappington, 59, is Corporate Executive Vice President, 

Operations and Technology Systems, a position he has held since 

March 2015. From January 2013 through February 2015, Mr. 

Sappington served as Corporate Senior Vice President-Chief 

Information Officer. Prior to that time, Mr. Sappington served as 

U.S. Vice President - General Manager for the Northwest Region 

from September 2010 to December 2012. Mr. Sappington has 

been with the Company for 30 years.

PART II

ITEM 5. Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Shareholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
Equity Securities

MARKET INFORMATION AND DIVIDEND POLICY

The Company’s common stock trades under the symbol MCD and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange in the U.S. The following table 
sets forth the common stock price ranges on the New York Stock Exchange and dividends declared per common share:

Dollars per share

Quarter:
First
Second
Third
Fourth
Year

High

Low

2017
Dividend

High

Low

Dividend

2016

130.19
155.46
161.72
175.78
175.78

118.18
128.65
151.77
155.80
118.18

0.94
0.94
1.95 *
—
3.83

126.96
131.96
128.60
124.00
131.96

112.71
116.08
113.96
110.33
110.33

0.89
0.89
1.83 *
—
3.61

* 

Includes a $0.94 and $0.89 per share dividend declared and paid in third quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively, and a $1.01 and $0.94 per share dividend 
declared in third quarter and paid in fourth quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively.

The number of shareholders of record and beneficial owners of the Company’s common stock as of January 31, 2018 was estimated to 

be 1,781,818.

Given the Company’s returns on incremental invested capital and assets, management believes it is prudent to reinvest in the business 
in markets with acceptable returns and/or opportunity for long-term growth and use excess cash flow to return cash to shareholders through 
dividends and share repurchases. The Company has paid dividends on common stock for 42 consecutive years through 2017 and has 
increased the dividend amount at least once every year. As in the past, future dividend amounts will be considered after reviewing 
profitability expectations and financing needs, and will be declared at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors.

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The following table presents information related to repurchases of common stock the Company made during the quarter ended 
December 31, 2017*:

Period

October 1-31, 2017
November 1-30, 2017
December 1-31, 2017
   Total

Total Number of
Shares Purchased

Average Price
Paid per Share

3,803,997
254,210
800
4,059,007

162.45
167.64
173.25
162.78

Total Number of
Shares Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced Plans or
Programs(1)
3,803,997
254,210
800
4,059,007

Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares
that May Yet
Be Purchased Under
the Plans or Programs(1)
$12,304,717,273
12,262,100,551
12,261,961,951

* 

Subject to applicable law, the Company may repurchase shares directly in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions, or pursuant to derivative 
instruments and plans complying with Rule 10b5-1, among other types of transactions and arrangements.

(1)  On July 27, 2017, the Company's Board of Directors approved a share repurchase program, effective July 28, 2017, that authorized the purchase of up to $15 

billion of the Company's outstanding common stock with no specified expiration date.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

The following are the Executive Officers of our Company (as of the 

date of this filing):

Ian Borden, 49, is President - Foundational Markets, a 

position he has held since July 2015. From January 2014 through 

June 2015, Mr. Borden served as Vice President and Chief 

Financial Officer - McDonald’s Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa. 

Prior to that time, Mr. Borden served as Regional Vice President of 

Europe’s East Division from April 2011 to December 2013 and as 

Managing Director - McDonald’s Ukraine from December 2007 to 

December 2013. He has served the Company for 23 years.

Stephen Easterbrook, 50, is President and Chief Executive 

Officer, a position he has held since March 2015. Mr. Easterbrook 

was also elected a Director of the Company effective March 2015. 

From May 2014 through February 2015, Mr. Easterbrook served 

as Corporate Senior Executive Vice President and Global Chief 

Brand Officer.  From June 2013 through April 2014, Mr. 

Easterbrook served as Corporate Executive Vice President and 

Global Chief Brand Officer. From September 2012 through May 

2013, Mr. Easterbrook served as the Chief Executive Officer of 

Wagamama Limited, a pan-Asian restaurant chain, and from 

September 2011 to September 2012, he served as the Chief 

Executive Officer of PizzaExpress Limited, an Italian restaurant 

brand. From December 2010 to September 2011, he held the 

position of President, McDonald’s Europe.  Prior to that, Mr. 

Easterbrook served in a number of roles with the Company.  Mr. 

Easterbrook has served the Company for 24 years.

Joseph Erlinger, 44, is President - High Growth Markets, a 

position he has held since September 2016.   Prior to that, Mr. 

Erlinger served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - 

High Growth Markets from March 2015 to January 2017 (serving 

in dual roles from September 2016 through January 2017), as 

Managing Director of McDonald’s Korea from April 2013 to 

January 2016 (serving in dual roles from March 2015 through 

January 2016), and US Vice President - GM for the Indianapolis 

region from December 2010 to March 2013.  He has served the 

Company for nearly 16 years.

David Fairhurst, 49, is Corporate Executive Vice President & 

Chief People Officer, a position he has held since October 2015. 

Mr. Fairhurst served as Corporate Senior Vice President, 

International Human Resources and Strategy from April 2015 to 

September 2015. Prior to that time, he served as Europe Vice 

President - Chief People Officer from January 2011 to March 

2015. Mr. Fairhurst has served the Company for 12 years.

Robert Gibbs, 46, is Corporate Executive Vice President and 

Global Chief Communications Officer, a position he has held since 

June 2015. Mr. Gibbs joined the Company from The Incite Agency, 

a strategic communications advisory firm that he co-founded in 

2013. Prior to that, Mr. Gibbs held several senior advisory roles in 

the White House, serving as the White House Press Secretary 

beginning in 2009, then as Senior Advisor in the 2012 re-election 

campaign.  Mr. Gibbs has been with the Company for nearly 3 

years.

Douglas Goare, 65, has served as President, International 

Lead Markets since July 2015 and in October 2016, he assumed 

responsibility as Chief Restaurant Officer. From October 2011 

through June 2015, Mr. Goare served as President, McDonald’s 

Europe. Prior to that time, Mr. Goare served as Corporate 

Executive Vice President of Supply Chain and Development from 

February 2011 through September 2011.  In addition, Mr. Goare 

assumed responsibility for Development in December 2010 and 

served as Corporate Senior Vice President of Supply Chain and 

Development through January 2011.  Mr. Goare has served the 

Company for 39 years.

10    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    11

 
 
 
Stock Performance Graph

At least annually, we consider which companies comprise a readily identifiable investment peer group. McDonald's is included in published 
restaurant indices; however, unlike most other companies included in these indices, which have no or limited international operations, 
McDonald's does business in more than 100 countries and a substantial portion of our revenues and income is generated outside the U.S. 
In addition, because of our size, McDonald's inclusion in those indices tends to skew the results. Therefore, we believe that such a 
comparison is not meaningful.

Our market capitalization, trading volume and importance in an industry that is vital to the U.S. economy have resulted in McDonald's 
inclusion in the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) since 1985. Like McDonald's, many DJIA companies generate meaningful revenues 
and income outside the U.S. and some manage global brands. Thus, we believe that the use of the DJIA companies as the group for 
comparison purposes is appropriate.

The following performance graph shows McDonald's cumulative total shareholder returns (i.e., price appreciation and reinvestment of 

dividends) relative to the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index (S&P 500 Index) and to the DJIA companies for the five-year period ended 
December 31, 2017. The graph assumes that the value of an investment in McDonald's common stock, the S&P 500 Index and the DJIA 
companies (including McDonald's) was $100 at December 31, 2012. For the DJIA companies, returns are weighted for market capitalization 
as of the beginning of each period indicated. These returns may vary from those of the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index, which is not 
weighted by market capitalization, and may be composed of different companies during the period under consideration. 

ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data

6-Year Summary

In millions, except per share and unit amounts

Consolidated Statement of Income Data
Revenues
   Sales by Company-operated restaurants
   Revenues from franchised restaurants
Total revenues
Operating income
Net income
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Data
Cash provided by operations
Cash used for (provided by) investing activities
Capital expenditures
Cash used for (provided by) financing activities
Treasury stock purchases(1)
Common stock dividends
Financial Position
Total assets
Total debt
Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)
Shares outstanding
Per Common Share Data
Earnings-diluted
Dividends declared
Market price at year end
Restaurant Information and Other Data
Restaurants at year end
   Company-operated restaurants
   Franchised restaurants
Total Systemwide restaurants
Franchised sales(2)

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

$ 12,719

$ 15,295

$ 16,488

$ 18,169

$ 18,875

$ 18,603

$

5,551

$

6,060

$

$

$

$

10,101

22,820

9,553

5,192

(562)

1,854

5,311

4,651

3,089

9,327

24,622

7,745

4,687

982

1,821

11,262

11,142

3,058

8,925

25,413

7,146

4,529

6,539

1,420

1,814

(735)

6,182

3,230

29,536

(3,268)

794

25,956

(2,204)

819

24,122

7,088

907

9,272

27,441

7,949

4,758

6,730

2,305

2,583

4,618

3,175

3,216

14,936

12,853

963

4.82

3.28

93.70

6,714

29,544

36,258

9,231

28,106

8,764

5,586

7,121

2,674

2,825

4,043

1,810

3,115

14,130

16,010

990

5.55

3.12

97.03

6,738

28,691

35,429

8,964

27,567

8,605

5,465

6,966

3,167

3,049

3,850

2,605

2,897

13,633

15,294

1,003

5.36

2.87

88.21

6,598

27,882

34,480

$ 33,804

$ 31,024

$ 37,939

$ 34,227

$ 36,626

$ 35,386

$

$

6.37

3.83

$

5.44

3.61

$

4.80

3.44

172.12

121.72

118.44

$

$

3,133

34,108

37,241

5,669

31,230

36,899

6,444

30,081

36,525

$ 78,191

$ 69,707

$ 66,226

$ 69,617

$ 70,251

$ 69,687

(1)  Represents treasury stock purchases as reflected in Shareholders' equity.

(2)  While franchised sales are not recorded as revenues by the Company, management believes they are important in understanding the Company's financial 

performance because these sales are the basis on which the Company calculates and records franchised revenues and are indicative of the financial health of the 

franchisee base. Franchised restaurants represent more than 90% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide at December 31, 2017.

Company/Index

12/31/2012

12/31/2013

12/31/2014

12/31/2015

12/31/2016

12/31/2017

McDonald's Corporation

S&P 500 Index

Dow Jones Industrials

Source: S&P Capital IQ

$100

100

100

$114

132

130

$113

151

143

$148

153

143

$157

171

167

$228

208

213

12    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    13

 
Stock Performance Graph

At least annually, we consider which companies comprise a readily identifiable investment peer group. McDonald's is included in published 

restaurant indices; however, unlike most other companies included in these indices, which have no or limited international operations, 

McDonald's does business in more than 100 countries and a substantial portion of our revenues and income is generated outside the U.S. 

In addition, because of our size, McDonald's inclusion in those indices tends to skew the results. Therefore, we believe that such a 

comparison is not meaningful.

Our market capitalization, trading volume and importance in an industry that is vital to the U.S. economy have resulted in McDonald's 

inclusion in the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) since 1985. Like McDonald's, many DJIA companies generate meaningful revenues 

and income outside the U.S. and some manage global brands. Thus, we believe that the use of the DJIA companies as the group for 

comparison purposes is appropriate.

The following performance graph shows McDonald's cumulative total shareholder returns (i.e., price appreciation and reinvestment of 

dividends) relative to the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index (S&P 500 Index) and to the DJIA companies for the five-year period ended 

December 31, 2017. The graph assumes that the value of an investment in McDonald's common stock, the S&P 500 Index and the DJIA 

companies (including McDonald's) was $100 at December 31, 2012. For the DJIA companies, returns are weighted for market capitalization 

as of the beginning of each period indicated. These returns may vary from those of the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index, which is not 

weighted by market capitalization, and may be composed of different companies during the period under consideration. 

ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data

6-Year Summary

In millions, except per share and unit amounts

Consolidated Statement of Income Data
Revenues
   Sales by Company-operated restaurants
   Revenues from franchised restaurants
Total revenues
Operating income
Net income
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Data
Cash provided by operations
Cash used for (provided by) investing activities
Capital expenditures
Cash used for (provided by) financing activities
Treasury stock purchases(1)
Common stock dividends
Financial Position
Total assets
Total debt
Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)
Shares outstanding
Per Common Share Data
Earnings-diluted
Dividends declared
Market price at year end
Restaurant Information and Other Data
Restaurants at year end
   Company-operated restaurants
   Franchised restaurants
Total Systemwide restaurants
Franchised sales(2)

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

$ 12,719
10,101
22,820
9,553
5,192

$ 15,295
9,327
24,622
7,745
4,687

$ 16,488
8,925
25,413
7,146
4,529

$ 18,169
9,272
27,441
7,949
4,758

$ 18,875
9,231
28,106
8,764
5,586

$ 18,603
8,964
27,567
8,605
5,465

$

$

$

5,551
(562)
1,854
5,311
4,651
3,089

6,060
982
1,821
11,262
11,142
3,058

$

6,539
1,420
1,814
(735)
6,182
3,230

$

6,730
2,305
2,583
4,618
3,175
3,216

$

7,121
2,674
2,825
4,043
1,810
3,115

6,966
3,167
3,049
3,850
2,605
2,897

$ 33,804
29,536
(3,268)
794

$ 31,024
25,956
(2,204)
819

$ 37,939
24,122
7,088
907

$ 34,227
14,936
12,853
963

$ 36,626
14,130
16,010
990

$ 35,386
13,633
15,294
1,003

$

6.37
3.83
172.12

$

5.44
3.61
121.72

$

4.80
3.44
118.44

$

$

4.82
3.28
93.70

$

5.55
3.12
97.03

5.36
2.87
88.21

3,133
34,108
37,241
$ 78,191

5,669
31,230
36,899
$ 69,707

6,444
30,081
36,525
$ 66,226

6,714
29,544
36,258
$ 69,617

6,738
28,691
35,429
$ 70,251

6,598
27,882
34,480
$ 69,687

(1)  Represents treasury stock purchases as reflected in Shareholders' equity.

(2)  While franchised sales are not recorded as revenues by the Company, management believes they are important in understanding the Company's financial 

performance because these sales are the basis on which the Company calculates and records franchised revenues and are indicative of the financial health of the 
franchisee base. Franchised restaurants represent more than 90% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide at December 31, 2017.

Company/Index

12/31/2012

12/31/2013

12/31/2014

12/31/2015

12/31/2016

12/31/2017

$100

100

100

$114

132

130

$113

151

143

$148

153

143

$157

171

167

$228

208

213

McDonald's Corporation

S&P 500 Index

Dow Jones Industrials

Source: S&P Capital IQ

12    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    13

 
ITEM 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS
The Company franchises and operates McDonald’s restaurants. 
Of the 37,241 restaurants in 120 countries at year-end 2017, 
34,108 were franchised (reflects 21,366 franchised to conventional 
franchisees, 6,945 licensed to developmental licensees and 5,797 
licensed to foreign affiliates ("affiliates")—primarily in Japan and 
China) and 3,133 were operated by the Company. 

Under McDonald's conventional franchise arrangement, 

franchisees provide a portion of the capital required by initially 
investing in the equipment, signs, seating and décor of their 
restaurant business, and by reinvesting in the business over time. 
The Company generally owns the land and building or secures 
long-term leases for both Company-operated and conventional 
franchised restaurant sites. This maintains long-term occupancy 
rights, helps control related costs and assists in alignment with 
franchisees enabling restaurant performance levels that are 
among the highest in the industry. In certain circumstances, the 
Company participates in the reinvestment for conventional 
franchised restaurants in an effort to accelerate implementation of 
certain initiatives. 

Under McDonald's developmental license arrangement, 
licensees provide capital for the entire business, including the real 
estate interest, and the Company generally has no capital 
invested. In addition, the Company has an equity investment in a 
number of affiliates (primarily in Japan and China) that invest in 
real estate and operate or franchise restaurants within a market.

McDonald's is primarily a franchisor and believes franchising 

is paramount to delivering great-tasting food, locally-relevant 
customer experiences and driving profitability. Franchising enables 
an individual to be his or her own employer and maintain control 
over all employment-related matters, marketing and pricing 
decisions, while also benefiting from the financial strength and 
global experience of McDonald's. However, directly operating 
restaurants is important to being a credible franchisor and 
provides Company personnel with restaurant operations 
experience. In Company-operated restaurants, and in 
collaboration with franchisees, McDonald's further develops and 
refines operating standards, marketing concepts and product and 
pricing strategies, so that only those that the Company believes 
are most beneficial are introduced in the restaurants. McDonald's 
continually reviews its mix of Company-operated and franchised 
restaurants to help optimize overall performance, with a goal to be 
approximately 95% franchised over the long term.

The Company’s revenues consist of sales by Company-
operated restaurants and fees from restaurants operated by 
franchisees. Revenues from conventional franchised restaurants 
include rent and royalties based on a percent of sales along with 
minimum rent payments, and initial fees. Revenues from 
restaurants licensed to affiliates and developmental licensees 
include a royalty based on a percent of sales, and generally 
include initial fees. Fees vary by type of site, amount of Company 
investment, if any, and local business conditions. These fees, 
along with occupancy and operating rights, are stipulated in 
franchise/license agreements that generally have 20-year terms.
The business is structured into the following segments that 

combine markets with similar characteristics and opportunities for 
growth, and reflect how management reviews and evaluates 
operating performance:

14    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

•  U.S. - the Company's largest segment.

depreciation and amortization (numerator) by the cash used 

ever-improving convenience for customers on their terms. The 

• 

International Lead Markets - established markets including 
Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the U.K. and related 
markets.

•  High Growth Markets - markets that the Company believes 
have relatively higher restaurant expansion and franchising 
potential including China, Italy, Korea, the Netherlands, 
Poland, Russia, Spain, Switzerland and related markets.

• 

Foundational Markets & Corporate - the remaining markets 
in the McDonald's system, most of which operate under a 
largely franchised model. Corporate activities are also 
reported within this segment.

 For the year ended December 31, 2017, the U.S., 

International Lead Markets and High Growth Markets accounted 
for 35%, 32% and 24% of total revenues, respectively. 

In analyzing business trends, management reviews results on 
a constant currency basis and considers a variety of performance 
and financial measures which are considered to be non-GAAP, 
including comparable sales and comparable guest count growth, 
Systemwide sales growth, return on incremental invested capital 
("ROIIC"), free cash flow and free cash flow conversion rate, as 
described below.

•  Constant currency results exclude the effects of foreign 

currency translation and are calculated by translating current 
year results at prior year average exchange rates. 
Management reviews and analyzes business results in 
constant currencies and bases most incentive compensation 
plans on these results because the Company believes this 
better represents its underlying business trends.

•  Comparable sales and comparable guest counts are key 

performance indicators used within the retail industry and are 
indicative of the impact of the Company’s initiatives as well 
as local economic and consumer trends. Increases or 
decreases in comparable sales and comparable guest 
counts represent the percent change in sales and 
transactions, respectively, from the same period in the prior 
year for all restaurants, whether operated by the Company or 
franchisees, in operation at least thirteen months, including 
those temporarily closed. Some of the reasons restaurants 
may be temporarily closed include reimaging or remodeling, 
rebuilding, road construction and natural disasters. 
Comparable sales exclude the impact of currency translation, 
and, beginning in 2017, also exclude sales from Venezuela 
due to its hyper-inflation.  Management generally identifies 
hyper-inflationary markets as those markets whose 
cumulative inflation rate over a three-year period exceeds 
100%. Comparable sales are driven by changes in guest 
counts and average check, which is affected by changes in 
pricing and product mix. Typically, pricing has a greater 
impact on average check than product mix. The goal is to 
achieve a relatively balanced contribution from both guest 
counts and average check. 

• 

Systemwide sales include sales at all restaurants. While 
franchised sales are not recorded as revenues by the 
Company, management believes the information is important 
in understanding the Company’s financial performance 
because these sales are the basis on which the Company 
calculates and records franchised revenues and are 
indicative of the financial health of the franchisee base.

•  ROIIC is a measure reviewed by management over one-year 

and three-year time periods to evaluate the overall 
profitability of the markets, the effectiveness of capital 
deployed and the future allocation of capital. The return is 
calculated by dividing the change in operating income plus 

In 2017, the Company shifted its focus to delivering long-term 

restaurants. In addition to added convenience, delivery 

for investing activities (denominator), primarily capital 

expenditures. The calculation uses a constant average 

foreign exchange rate over the periods included in the 

calculation.

• 

Free cash flow, defined as cash provided by operations less 

capital expenditures, and free cash flow conversion rate, 

defined as free cash flow divided by net income, are 

measures reviewed by management in order to evaluate the 

Company’s ability to convert net profits into cash resources, 

after reinvesting in the core business, that can be used to 

pursue opportunities to enhance shareholder value. 

STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 
The strength of the alignment among the Company, its franchisees 
and suppliers (collectively referred to as the "System") is key to 
McDonald's long-term success. By leveraging the System, 
McDonald’s is able to identify, implement and scale ideas that 
meet customers' changing needs and preferences. McDonald's 
continually builds on its competitive advantages of System 
alignment and geographic diversification to deliver consistent, yet 
locally-relevant restaurant experiences to customers as an integral 
part of their communities.

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC GROWTH STRATEGY
Beginning in 2015, the Company made purposeful changes to 
execute against key elements of its turnaround plan including a 
renewed focus on running better restaurants, driving operational 
growth, returning excitement to the brand and enhancing financial 
value.  The Company’s current momentum is broad-based 
throughout the System and its recent performance demonstrates 
that McDonald’s has completed the transition from turnaround to 
growth.  

growth through accelerated execution of its customer-centric 
strategy - the Velocity Growth Plan. This plan outlines actions to 
drive sustainable guest count growth, a reliable long-term 
measure of the Company's strength, that is vital to growing sales 
and shareholder value.

The Velocity Growth Plan is rooted in extensive customer 

research and insights, along with a deep understanding of the key 
drivers of the business. The Company is targeting the tremendous 
opportunity at the core of its business - its food, value and 
customer experience.  The strategy is built on the following three 
pillars, all focusing on building a better McDonald’s:

•  Retaining existing customers - focusing on areas where it 

already has a strong foothold in the IEO category, including 

family occasions and food-led breakfast.

•  Regaining lost customers - recommitting to areas of historic 

strength, namely food taste and quality, convenience and 

value.

•  Converting casual to committed customers - building stronger 

relationships with customers so they visit more often, by 

elevating and leveraging the McCafé coffee brand and 

enhancing snack and treat offerings.

In each pillar, McDonald’s has established sustainable 

platforms that enable execution of the plan with greater speed, 
efficiency and impact while remaining relentlessly focused on the 
fundamentals of running great restaurants. Additionally, through 
three identified growth accelerators - Experience of the Future 
(“EOTF”), Digital and Delivery - McDonald’s is enhancing the 
overall customer experience with hospitable, friendly service and 

Company met aggressive deployment targets for each one of 

these accelerators in 2017 and continues further implementation 

in 2018 and beyond.   

•  Experience of the Future.  The Company continues to build 

upon its investments in EOTF, focusing on restaurant 

modernization and technology, in order to transform the 

restaurant service experience and enhance the brand in the 

eyes of the customer. The modernization efforts are designed 

to drive incremental customer visits and higher average 

check.  McDonald’s currently has EOTF deployed in about 

one-third of the restaurants globally, with half of the U.S. 

restaurants expected to be deployed by the end of 2018.

•  Digital. As the Company accelerates its pace of converting 

restaurants to EOTF, it is placing renewed emphasis on 

improving its existing service model (i.e., eat in, take out, or 

drive-thru) and strengthening its relationships with customers 

through technology. By evolving the technology platform, the 

Company is expanding choices for how customers order, pay 

and are served through additional functionality on its global 

mobile app, self-order kiosks and technology-driven models 

that enable table service and curb-side pick-up. In the U.S. 

alone, McDonald’s now has over 20 million registered users of 

the McDonald’s application. 

•  Delivery. The Company continues to further scale its delivery 

platform as a way of expanding the convenience customers 

receive from McDonald's. In 2017, McDonald’s added delivery 

to 7,000 restaurants in 21 different countries.  Including 

previously offering delivery in Asia and the Middle East, 

McDonald’s is now delivering meals from over 10,000 

transactions tend to realize a higher average check and a 

high customer satisfaction rating. In 2018, while the Company 

expects to continue to expand the number of restaurants 

offering delivery, the focus will shift to growing awareness and 

demand in the areas where delivery is already offered.

In 2018, McDonald’s has plans to raise consumer awareness 

of the enhanced convenience available with delivery and mobile 

order and pay through thoughtful marketing campaigns that aim to 

increase the number of customers enjoying these expanded 

options to engage with the brand. The Company is optimistic that 

this will contribute to the continued momentum of the business.

In addition to the customer-relevant changes in the 

restaurants, the Company has enhanced financial value through 

its refranchising efforts, G&A cost savings initiatives and cash 

return to shareholders. In 2017, the Company achieved its target 

to refranchise 4,000 restaurants, a full year ahead of the original 

target date. McDonald’s is currently 92% franchised, with a long-

term goal of approximately 95%. The transition to a more heavily 

franchised business model is benefiting the Company’s 

performance, as the rent and royalty income received from 

franchisees provides a more predictable and stable revenue 

stream with significantly lower operating costs and risks. This 

includes a less G&A and capital intensive structure as franchisees 

are responsible for supporting and reinvesting in their businesses. 

Under this more heavily franchised structure, growing comparable 

sales will be the strongest driver of operating income growth and 

returns.  

growth. 

Through execution of the Velocity Growth Plan, McDonald’s is 

serving more customers more often. In 2018, the Company 

remains aggressively focused on executing its ambitious plan to 

unlock more of its potential and drive long-term sustainable 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    15

 
 
restaurant business, and by reinvesting in the business over time. 

for 35%, 32% and 24% of total revenues, respectively. 

ITEM 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis

of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS

The Company franchises and operates McDonald’s restaurants. 

Of the 37,241 restaurants in 120 countries at year-end 2017, 

34,108 were franchised (reflects 21,366 franchised to conventional 

franchisees, 6,945 licensed to developmental licensees and 5,797 

licensed to foreign affiliates ("affiliates")—primarily in Japan and 

China) and 3,133 were operated by the Company. 

Under McDonald's conventional franchise arrangement, 

franchisees provide a portion of the capital required by initially 

investing in the equipment, signs, seating and décor of their 

The Company generally owns the land and building or secures 

long-term leases for both Company-operated and conventional 

franchised restaurant sites. This maintains long-term occupancy 

rights, helps control related costs and assists in alignment with 

franchisees enabling restaurant performance levels that are 

among the highest in the industry. In certain circumstances, the 

Company participates in the reinvestment for conventional 

franchised restaurants in an effort to accelerate implementation of 

certain initiatives. 

Under McDonald's developmental license arrangement, 

licensees provide capital for the entire business, including the real 

estate interest, and the Company generally has no capital 

invested. In addition, the Company has an equity investment in a 

number of affiliates (primarily in Japan and China) that invest in 

real estate and operate or franchise restaurants within a market.

McDonald's is primarily a franchisor and believes franchising 

is paramount to delivering great-tasting food, locally-relevant 

customer experiences and driving profitability. Franchising enables 

an individual to be his or her own employer and maintain control 

over all employment-related matters, marketing and pricing 

decisions, while also benefiting from the financial strength and 

global experience of McDonald's. However, directly operating 

restaurants is important to being a credible franchisor and 

provides Company personnel with restaurant operations 

experience. In Company-operated restaurants, and in 

collaboration with franchisees, McDonald's further develops and 

refines operating standards, marketing concepts and product and 

pricing strategies, so that only those that the Company believes 

are most beneficial are introduced in the restaurants. McDonald's 

continually reviews its mix of Company-operated and franchised 

restaurants to help optimize overall performance, with a goal to be 

approximately 95% franchised over the long term.

The Company’s revenues consist of sales by Company-

operated restaurants and fees from restaurants operated by 

franchisees. Revenues from conventional franchised restaurants 

include rent and royalties based on a percent of sales along with 

minimum rent payments, and initial fees. Revenues from 

restaurants licensed to affiliates and developmental licensees 

include a royalty based on a percent of sales, and generally 

include initial fees. Fees vary by type of site, amount of Company 

investment, if any, and local business conditions. These fees, 

along with occupancy and operating rights, are stipulated in 

franchise/license agreements that generally have 20-year terms.

The business is structured into the following segments that 

combine markets with similar characteristics and opportunities for 

growth, and reflect how management reviews and evaluates 

operating performance:

14    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

•  U.S. - the Company's largest segment.

• 

International Lead Markets - established markets including 

Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the U.K. and related 

markets.

•  High Growth Markets - markets that the Company believes 
have relatively higher restaurant expansion and franchising 

potential including China, Italy, Korea, the Netherlands, 

Poland, Russia, Spain, Switzerland and related markets.

• 

Foundational Markets & Corporate - the remaining markets 

in the McDonald's system, most of which operate under a 

largely franchised model. Corporate activities are also 

reported within this segment.

 For the year ended December 31, 2017, the U.S., 

International Lead Markets and High Growth Markets accounted 

In analyzing business trends, management reviews results on 
a constant currency basis and considers a variety of performance 

and financial measures which are considered to be non-GAAP, 

including comparable sales and comparable guest count growth, 
Systemwide sales growth, return on incremental invested capital 

("ROIIC"), free cash flow and free cash flow conversion rate, as 

described below.

•  Constant currency results exclude the effects of foreign 

currency translation and are calculated by translating current 

year results at prior year average exchange rates. 

Management reviews and analyzes business results in 

constant currencies and bases most incentive compensation 

plans on these results because the Company believes this 

better represents its underlying business trends.

•  Comparable sales and comparable guest counts are key 

performance indicators used within the retail industry and are 

indicative of the impact of the Company’s initiatives as well 

as local economic and consumer trends. Increases or 

decreases in comparable sales and comparable guest 

counts represent the percent change in sales and 

transactions, respectively, from the same period in the prior 
year for all restaurants, whether operated by the Company or 

franchisees, in operation at least thirteen months, including 

those temporarily closed. Some of the reasons restaurants 

may be temporarily closed include reimaging or remodeling, 

rebuilding, road construction and natural disasters. 

Comparable sales exclude the impact of currency translation, 

and, beginning in 2017, also exclude sales from Venezuela 

due to its hyper-inflation.  Management generally identifies 

hyper-inflationary markets as those markets whose 

cumulative inflation rate over a three-year period exceeds 

100%. Comparable sales are driven by changes in guest 

counts and average check, which is affected by changes in 

pricing and product mix. Typically, pricing has a greater 

impact on average check than product mix. The goal is to 

achieve a relatively balanced contribution from both guest 

counts and average check. 

• 

Systemwide sales include sales at all restaurants. While 

franchised sales are not recorded as revenues by the 

Company, management believes the information is important 

in understanding the Company’s financial performance 

because these sales are the basis on which the Company 

calculates and records franchised revenues and are 

indicative of the financial health of the franchisee base.

•  ROIIC is a measure reviewed by management over one-year 

and three-year time periods to evaluate the overall 

profitability of the markets, the effectiveness of capital 

deployed and the future allocation of capital. The return is 

calculated by dividing the change in operating income plus 

depreciation and amortization (numerator) by the cash used 
for investing activities (denominator), primarily capital 
expenditures. The calculation uses a constant average 
foreign exchange rate over the periods included in the 
calculation.

• 

Free cash flow, defined as cash provided by operations less 
capital expenditures, and free cash flow conversion rate, 
defined as free cash flow divided by net income, are 
measures reviewed by management in order to evaluate the 
Company’s ability to convert net profits into cash resources, 
after reinvesting in the core business, that can be used to 
pursue opportunities to enhance shareholder value. 

STRATEGIC DIRECTION AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE 
The strength of the alignment among the Company, its franchisees 
and suppliers (collectively referred to as the "System") is key to 
McDonald's long-term success. By leveraging the System, 
McDonald’s is able to identify, implement and scale ideas that 
meet customers' changing needs and preferences. McDonald's 
continually builds on its competitive advantages of System 
alignment and geographic diversification to deliver consistent, yet 
locally-relevant restaurant experiences to customers as an integral 
part of their communities.

CUSTOMER-CENTRIC GROWTH STRATEGY
Beginning in 2015, the Company made purposeful changes to 
execute against key elements of its turnaround plan including a 
renewed focus on running better restaurants, driving operational 
growth, returning excitement to the brand and enhancing financial 
value.  The Company’s current momentum is broad-based 
throughout the System and its recent performance demonstrates 
that McDonald’s has completed the transition from turnaround to 
growth.  

In 2017, the Company shifted its focus to delivering long-term 

growth through accelerated execution of its customer-centric 
strategy - the Velocity Growth Plan. This plan outlines actions to 
drive sustainable guest count growth, a reliable long-term 
measure of the Company's strength, that is vital to growing sales 
and shareholder value.

The Velocity Growth Plan is rooted in extensive customer 
research and insights, along with a deep understanding of the key 
drivers of the business. The Company is targeting the tremendous 
opportunity at the core of its business - its food, value and 
customer experience.  The strategy is built on the following three 
pillars, all focusing on building a better McDonald’s:

•  Retaining existing customers - focusing on areas where it 

already has a strong foothold in the IEO category, including 
family occasions and food-led breakfast.

•  Regaining lost customers - recommitting to areas of historic 
strength, namely food taste and quality, convenience and 
value.

•  Converting casual to committed customers - building stronger 
relationships with customers so they visit more often, by 
elevating and leveraging the McCafé coffee brand and 
enhancing snack and treat offerings.

In each pillar, McDonald’s has established sustainable 
platforms that enable execution of the plan with greater speed, 
efficiency and impact while remaining relentlessly focused on the 
fundamentals of running great restaurants. Additionally, through 
three identified growth accelerators - Experience of the Future 
(“EOTF”), Digital and Delivery - McDonald’s is enhancing the 
overall customer experience with hospitable, friendly service and 

ever-improving convenience for customers on their terms. The 
Company met aggressive deployment targets for each one of 
these accelerators in 2017 and continues further implementation 
in 2018 and beyond.   

•  Experience of the Future.  The Company continues to build 
upon its investments in EOTF, focusing on restaurant 
modernization and technology, in order to transform the 
restaurant service experience and enhance the brand in the 
eyes of the customer. The modernization efforts are designed 
to drive incremental customer visits and higher average 
check.  McDonald’s currently has EOTF deployed in about 
one-third of the restaurants globally, with half of the U.S. 
restaurants expected to be deployed by the end of 2018.

•  Digital. As the Company accelerates its pace of converting 
restaurants to EOTF, it is placing renewed emphasis on 
improving its existing service model (i.e., eat in, take out, or 
drive-thru) and strengthening its relationships with customers 
through technology. By evolving the technology platform, the 
Company is expanding choices for how customers order, pay 
and are served through additional functionality on its global 
mobile app, self-order kiosks and technology-driven models 
that enable table service and curb-side pick-up. In the U.S. 
alone, McDonald’s now has over 20 million registered users of 
the McDonald’s application. 

•  Delivery. The Company continues to further scale its delivery 

platform as a way of expanding the convenience customers 
receive from McDonald's. In 2017, McDonald’s added delivery 
to 7,000 restaurants in 21 different countries.  Including 
previously offering delivery in Asia and the Middle East, 
McDonald’s is now delivering meals from over 10,000 
restaurants. In addition to added convenience, delivery 
transactions tend to realize a higher average check and a 
high customer satisfaction rating. In 2018, while the Company 
expects to continue to expand the number of restaurants 
offering delivery, the focus will shift to growing awareness and 
demand in the areas where delivery is already offered.

In 2018, McDonald’s has plans to raise consumer awareness 

of the enhanced convenience available with delivery and mobile 
order and pay through thoughtful marketing campaigns that aim to 
increase the number of customers enjoying these expanded 
options to engage with the brand. The Company is optimistic that 
this will contribute to the continued momentum of the business.

In addition to the customer-relevant changes in the 

restaurants, the Company has enhanced financial value through 
its refranchising efforts, G&A cost savings initiatives and cash 
return to shareholders. In 2017, the Company achieved its target 
to refranchise 4,000 restaurants, a full year ahead of the original 
target date. McDonald’s is currently 92% franchised, with a long-
term goal of approximately 95%. The transition to a more heavily 
franchised business model is benefiting the Company’s 
performance, as the rent and royalty income received from 
franchisees provides a more predictable and stable revenue 
stream with significantly lower operating costs and risks. This 
includes a less G&A and capital intensive structure as franchisees 
are responsible for supporting and reinvesting in their businesses. 
Under this more heavily franchised structure, growing comparable 
sales will be the strongest driver of operating income growth and 
returns.  

Through execution of the Velocity Growth Plan, McDonald’s is 

serving more customers more often. In 2018, the Company 
remains aggressively focused on executing its ambitious plan to 
unlock more of its potential and drive long-term sustainable 
growth. 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    15

 
 
•  Operating margin, defined as operating income as a percent 
of total revenues, increased from 31.5% in 2016 to 41.9% in 
2017.

•  Diluted earnings per share of $6.37 increased 17% (17% in 

constant currencies). 

•  Cash provided by operations was $5.6 billion.

•  Capital expenditures of $1.9 billion were allocated mainly to 
reinvestment in existing restaurants and, to a lesser extent, 
to new restaurant openings. 

• 

• 

Across the System, about 900 restaurants (including those in 
our developmental licensee and affiliated markets) were 
opened.   

Free cash flow was $3.7 billion (see reconciliation in Exhibit 
12). 

•  One-year ROIIC was 1,671.8% and three-year ROIIC was 
93.1% for the period ended December 31, 2017. Excluding 
the gain from the sale of businesses in China and Hong 
Kong, as well as significant investing cash inflows from 
strategic refranchising initiatives, one year and three year 
ROIIC were 48.3% and 43.6%, respectively (see 
reconciliation in Exhibit 12).

• 

• 

The Company increased its quarterly cash dividend per 
share by 7% to $1.01 for the fourth quarter, equivalent to an 
annual dividend of $4.04 per share.

The Company returned $7.7 billion to shareholders through 
share repurchases and dividends for the year.

Our Velocity Growth Plan also includes the Company doing its 
part to further embed certain social and environmental issues into 
the core of our business, which we refer to as our Scale for Good.  
As one of the world’s largest restaurant companies, our Scale for 
Good highlights our commitment to global priorities that are 
consistent with our strategic priorities and provides an opportunity 
to collaborate with our franchisees and suppliers to drive 
meaningful progress.  We believe it is important for customers to 
feel good about visiting McDonald’s restaurants and eating our 
food in order to continue to drive each of the pillars within our 
strategy.

While we're committed to addressing many challenges facing 

society today, we're elevating a few global priorities that reflect 
analysis of major social and environmental impacts of our food 
and our business and the material environmental and social 
issues that matter most to our customers, employees, franchisees, 
suppliers and stakeholders. Our four global priorities are: beef 
sustainability, packaging and recycling, commitment to families 
and our investment in people.  Beyond these global priorities, we 
will continue to drive progress on our goals and commitments 
across key social and environmental topics such as climate 
change, diversity, animal health and welfare, and supporting 
families and farmers.

2017 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
The Company's 2017 financial performance demonstrates that the 
Velocity Growth Plan is working. By focusing on the 
aforementioned three pillars, and the identified growth 
accelerators, the Company achieved its best comparable sales 
performance in six years. In 2017, global comparable sales 
increased 5.3% and global comparable guest counts increased 
1.9%, with positive results achieved in all segments.

•  Comparable sales in the U.S. increased 3.6% and 

comparable guest counts increased 1.0%.  The growth in 
comparable sales and guest counts was supported by the 
full breadth of our menu, including national beverage value 
offerings, strong performance of core menu items featured 
under the McPick 2 platform as well as Signature Crafted 
premium sandwiches and other menu innovations.

•  Comparable sales in the International Lead segment 

increased 5.3% and comparable guest counts increased 
2.3%, reflecting positive performance across all of the 
segment, led by the U.K. and Canada.

• 

In the High Growth segment, comparable sales increased 
5.3% and comparable guest counts increased 1.8%. This 
performance reflects positive results across most of the 
segment, led by China.

•  Comparable sales in the Foundational Markets increased 

9.0% and comparable guest counts increased 3.3%, led by 
strong performance in Japan and Latin America, as well as 
solid results across the remainder of the segment.

In addition to improved comparable sales and guest count 
performance, the Company achieved the following financial results 
in 2017:

•  Consolidated revenues decreased 7% (8% in constant 

currencies) as positive comparable sales were more than 
offset by the impact of refranchising.

• 

Systemwide sales increased 7% (7% in constant 
currencies).

•  Consolidated operating income increased 23% (23% in 

constant currencies), which benefited from a gain on the sale 
of the Company’s businesses in China and Hong Kong.

16    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

AREAS OF FOCUS BY SEGMENT

U.S.

OUTLOOK 

2018 Outlook

The U.S. remains diligent in driving guest count growth 
momentum in 2018 by continuing to focus on actions that 
collectively transform the customer experience.  

With the launch of the $1 $2 $3 Dollar Menu in January 2018, 

the Company is offering a compelling, national value program that 
resonates with customers. Additionally, an emphasis on food taste 
and quality will remain a key priority. In 2018, the U.S. is planning 
to introduce fresh beef across the majority of its restaurants, 
cooked right when ordered and served hot off the grill for all 
Quarter Pounder burgers. The U.S. will also offer new seasonal 
flavors to further expand the McCafé espresso line in 2018, 
following its successful relaunch of McCafé in 2017.

The pace of activity in the U.S. remains accelerated with a 

focus on increasing customer awareness of its global mobile 
application, mobile order and pay functionality as well as its 
delivery platform. Further, the Company is accelerating its 
investment in EOTF as it expects to complete nearly 4,000 U.S. 
restaurants in 2018. A majority of traditional restaurants in the U.S. 
are expected to be substantially complete with EOTF by the end of 
2019, offering a holistic, modern experience for customers.

International Lead Markets

International Lead markets continue to deepen their connection 
with customers and meet their changing needs with meaningful 
enhancements in menu, accessibility and experience.

The segment is focused on providing quality, great taste, 

value and choice across the entire menu. Programs across the 
segment are energizing the core menu, and every market has 
successfully extended into premium chicken and beef, in addition 
to locally relevant offerings. All of this is supported by modernized 
cooking and service platforms that expand capacity and enable 
hotter, fresher products. Entry-level value programs appeal to 
teens and young adults, while other platforms provide budget-
conscious customers affordable meal bundles. 

International Lead markets remain focused on enhancing and 

expanding the McCafé coffee brand and the ongoing deployment 
of EOTF restaurants across the segment. In addition to EOTF, the 
continued roll out of delivery provides customers with the high 
levels of convenience they are seeking.    

High Growth Markets

McDonald’s High Growth markets have leveraged ideas around 
design, digital, people, menu innovation and value from other 
markets to enhance the customer experience.

Driving operational growth in existing restaurants and 

targeted new restaurant development are top priorities. In 2017, 
the Company sold its businesses in China and Hong Kong to a 
licensee. Continued successful integration of the segment’s new 
licensee into the System will further enable restaurant growth, 
menu innovation and convenience strategies suited to each 
market’s customers.

Foundational Markets

Foundational markets are a diverse group that share the common 
goal of enhancing critical elements that differentiate McDonald’s - 
the menu and the customer experience. The segment is 
committed to running great restaurants and increasing 
convenience to customers, including drive-thru and delivery. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The following information is provided to assist in forecasting the 

Company’s future results.

Changes in Systemwide sales are driven by comparable 

sales, net restaurant unit expansion, and the potential 

impacts of hyper-inflation. The Company expects net 

restaurant additions to add approximately 1 percentage point 

to 2018 Systemwide sales growth (in constant currencies). 

The Company does not generally provide specific guidance 

on changes in comparable sales. However, as a perspective, 

assuming no change in cost structure, a 1 percentage point 

change in comparable sales for either the U.S. or the 

International Lead segment would change annual diluted 

earnings per share by about 5 to 6 cents.  

• 

Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the 

guidance issued in Accounting Standards Codification 606, 

"Revenue Recognition - Revenue from Contracts with 

Customers". This standard changed the way initial fees from 

franchisees for new restaurant openings or new franchise 

terms are recognized. Under the new guidance, initial 

franchise fees will be recognized evenly over the franchise 

term. The Company expects the adoption of this guidance to 

negatively impact 2018 consolidated franchised revenues 

and franchised margins by approximately $50 million. 

•  With about 75% of McDonald's grocery bill comprised of 10 

different commodities, a basket of goods approach is the 

most comprehensive way to look at the Company's 

commodity costs. For the full-year 2018, costs for the total 

basket of goods are expected to increase about 1% to 2% in 

the U.S. and increase about 2% in the International Lead 

segment. 

currencies.  

The Company expects full-year 2018 selling, general and 

administrative expenses to decrease about 1% in constant 

Based on current interest and foreign currency exchange 

rates, the Company expects interest expense for the full-

year 2018 to increase about 5% to 7% compared with 2017 

due primarily to higher average debt balances. 

A significant part of the Company's operating income is 

generated outside the U.S., and about 40% of its total debt is 

denominated in foreign currencies. Accordingly, earnings are 

affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates, 

particularly the Euro, British Pound, Australian Dollar and 

Canadian Dollar. Collectively, these currencies represent 

approximately 70% of the Company's operating income 

outside the U.S. If all four of these currencies moved by 10% 

in the same direction, the Company's annual diluted 

earnings per share would change by about 30 cents. 

The Company expects the effective income tax rate for the 

full-year 2018 to be in the 25-27% range, with volatility 

between the quarters. Certain aspects of the Tax Act are 

expected to be clarified, and as such, could impact the 

Company's tax rate.

The Company expects capital expenditures for 2018 to be 

approximately $2.4 billion. About $1.5 billion will be 

dedicated to our U.S. business, primarily focused on 

accelerating the pace of EOTF. We expect to complete 

EOTF at nearly 4,000 additional U.S. restaurants in 2018, 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    17

 
Our Velocity Growth Plan also includes the Company doing its 

part to further embed certain social and environmental issues into 

•  Operating margin, defined as operating income as a percent 
of total revenues, increased from 31.5% in 2016 to 41.9% in 

the core of our business, which we refer to as our Scale for Good.  

2017.

AREAS OF FOCUS BY SEGMENT

U.S.

OUTLOOK 

2018 Outlook

•  Diluted earnings per share of $6.37 increased 17% (17% in 

constant currencies). 

•  Cash provided by operations was $5.6 billion.

•  Capital expenditures of $1.9 billion were allocated mainly to 
reinvestment in existing restaurants and, to a lesser extent, 

to new restaurant openings. 

• 

Across the System, about 900 restaurants (including those in 

our developmental licensee and affiliated markets) were 

opened.   

12). 

• 

Free cash flow was $3.7 billion (see reconciliation in Exhibit 

•  One-year ROIIC was 1,671.8% and three-year ROIIC was 

93.1% for the period ended December 31, 2017. Excluding 

the gain from the sale of businesses in China and Hong 

Kong, as well as significant investing cash inflows from 

strategic refranchising initiatives, one year and three year 

ROIIC were 48.3% and 43.6%, respectively (see 

reconciliation in Exhibit 12).

• 

The Company increased its quarterly cash dividend per 

share by 7% to $1.01 for the fourth quarter, equivalent to an 

annual dividend of $4.04 per share.

• 

The Company returned $7.7 billion to shareholders through 

share repurchases and dividends for the year.

As one of the world’s largest restaurant companies, our Scale for 

Good highlights our commitment to global priorities that are 

consistent with our strategic priorities and provides an opportunity 

to collaborate with our franchisees and suppliers to drive 

meaningful progress.  We believe it is important for customers to 

feel good about visiting McDonald’s restaurants and eating our 

food in order to continue to drive each of the pillars within our 

strategy.

While we're committed to addressing many challenges facing 

society today, we're elevating a few global priorities that reflect 

analysis of major social and environmental impacts of our food 

and our business and the material environmental and social 

issues that matter most to our customers, employees, franchisees, 

suppliers and stakeholders. Our four global priorities are: beef 

sustainability, packaging and recycling, commitment to families 

and our investment in people.  Beyond these global priorities, we 

will continue to drive progress on our goals and commitments 

across key social and environmental topics such as climate 

change, diversity, animal health and welfare, and supporting 

families and farmers.

2017 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

The Company's 2017 financial performance demonstrates that the 

Velocity Growth Plan is working. By focusing on the 

aforementioned three pillars, and the identified growth 

accelerators, the Company achieved its best comparable sales 

performance in six years. In 2017, global comparable sales 

increased 5.3% and global comparable guest counts increased 

1.9%, with positive results achieved in all segments.

•  Comparable sales in the U.S. increased 3.6% and 

comparable guest counts increased 1.0%.  The growth in 

comparable sales and guest counts was supported by the 

full breadth of our menu, including national beverage value 

offerings, strong performance of core menu items featured 

under the McPick 2 platform as well as Signature Crafted 

premium sandwiches and other menu innovations.

•  Comparable sales in the International Lead segment 

increased 5.3% and comparable guest counts increased 

2.3%, reflecting positive performance across all of the 

segment, led by the U.K. and Canada.

• 

In the High Growth segment, comparable sales increased 

5.3% and comparable guest counts increased 1.8%. This 

performance reflects positive results across most of the 

segment, led by China.

•  Comparable sales in the Foundational Markets increased 

9.0% and comparable guest counts increased 3.3%, led by 

strong performance in Japan and Latin America, as well as 

solid results across the remainder of the segment.

In addition to improved comparable sales and guest count 

performance, the Company achieved the following financial results 

in 2017:

•  Consolidated revenues decreased 7% (8% in constant 

currencies) as positive comparable sales were more than 

offset by the impact of refranchising.

• 

Systemwide sales increased 7% (7% in constant 

currencies).

•  Consolidated operating income increased 23% (23% in 

constant currencies), which benefited from a gain on the sale 

of the Company’s businesses in China and Hong Kong.

16    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

The U.S. remains diligent in driving guest count growth 
momentum in 2018 by continuing to focus on actions that 
collectively transform the customer experience.  

With the launch of the $1 $2 $3 Dollar Menu in January 2018, 
the Company is offering a compelling, national value program that 
resonates with customers. Additionally, an emphasis on food taste 
and quality will remain a key priority. In 2018, the U.S. is planning 
to introduce fresh beef across the majority of its restaurants, 
cooked right when ordered and served hot off the grill for all 
Quarter Pounder burgers. The U.S. will also offer new seasonal 
flavors to further expand the McCafé espresso line in 2018, 
following its successful relaunch of McCafé in 2017.

The pace of activity in the U.S. remains accelerated with a 

focus on increasing customer awareness of its global mobile 
application, mobile order and pay functionality as well as its 
delivery platform. Further, the Company is accelerating its 
investment in EOTF as it expects to complete nearly 4,000 U.S. 
restaurants in 2018. A majority of traditional restaurants in the U.S. 
are expected to be substantially complete with EOTF by the end of 
2019, offering a holistic, modern experience for customers.

International Lead Markets

International Lead markets continue to deepen their connection 
with customers and meet their changing needs with meaningful 
enhancements in menu, accessibility and experience.

The segment is focused on providing quality, great taste, 

value and choice across the entire menu. Programs across the 
segment are energizing the core menu, and every market has 
successfully extended into premium chicken and beef, in addition 
to locally relevant offerings. All of this is supported by modernized 
cooking and service platforms that expand capacity and enable 
hotter, fresher products. Entry-level value programs appeal to 
teens and young adults, while other platforms provide budget-
conscious customers affordable meal bundles. 

International Lead markets remain focused on enhancing and 
expanding the McCafé coffee brand and the ongoing deployment 
of EOTF restaurants across the segment. In addition to EOTF, the 
continued roll out of delivery provides customers with the high 
levels of convenience they are seeking.    

High Growth Markets

McDonald’s High Growth markets have leveraged ideas around 
design, digital, people, menu innovation and value from other 
markets to enhance the customer experience.

Driving operational growth in existing restaurants and 
targeted new restaurant development are top priorities. In 2017, 
the Company sold its businesses in China and Hong Kong to a 
licensee. Continued successful integration of the segment’s new 
licensee into the System will further enable restaurant growth, 
menu innovation and convenience strategies suited to each 
market’s customers.

Foundational Markets

Foundational markets are a diverse group that share the common 
goal of enhancing critical elements that differentiate McDonald’s - 
the menu and the customer experience. The segment is 
committed to running great restaurants and increasing 
convenience to customers, including drive-thru and delivery. 

The following information is provided to assist in forecasting the 
Company’s future results.

• 

• 

• 

Changes in Systemwide sales are driven by comparable 
sales, net restaurant unit expansion, and the potential 
impacts of hyper-inflation. The Company expects net 
restaurant additions to add approximately 1 percentage point 
to 2018 Systemwide sales growth (in constant currencies). 

The Company does not generally provide specific guidance 
on changes in comparable sales. However, as a perspective, 
assuming no change in cost structure, a 1 percentage point 
change in comparable sales for either the U.S. or the 
International Lead segment would change annual diluted 
earnings per share by about 5 to 6 cents.  

Effective January 1, 2018, the Company adopted the 
guidance issued in Accounting Standards Codification 606, 
"Revenue Recognition - Revenue from Contracts with 
Customers". This standard changed the way initial fees from 
franchisees for new restaurant openings or new franchise 
terms are recognized. Under the new guidance, initial 
franchise fees will be recognized evenly over the franchise 
term. The Company expects the adoption of this guidance to 
negatively impact 2018 consolidated franchised revenues 
and franchised margins by approximately $50 million. 

•  With about 75% of McDonald's grocery bill comprised of 10 
different commodities, a basket of goods approach is the 
most comprehensive way to look at the Company's 
commodity costs. For the full-year 2018, costs for the total 
basket of goods are expected to increase about 1% to 2% in 
the U.S. and increase about 2% in the International Lead 
segment. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The Company expects full-year 2018 selling, general and 
administrative expenses to decrease about 1% in constant 
currencies.  

Based on current interest and foreign currency exchange 
rates, the Company expects interest expense for the full-
year 2018 to increase about 5% to 7% compared with 2017 
due primarily to higher average debt balances. 

A significant part of the Company's operating income is 
generated outside the U.S., and about 40% of its total debt is 
denominated in foreign currencies. Accordingly, earnings are 
affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates, 
particularly the Euro, British Pound, Australian Dollar and 
Canadian Dollar. Collectively, these currencies represent 
approximately 70% of the Company's operating income 
outside the U.S. If all four of these currencies moved by 10% 
in the same direction, the Company's annual diluted 
earnings per share would change by about 30 cents. 

The Company expects the effective income tax rate for the 
full-year 2018 to be in the 25-27% range, with volatility 
between the quarters. Certain aspects of the Tax Act are 
expected to be clarified, and as such, could impact the 
Company's tax rate.

The Company expects capital expenditures for 2018 to be 
approximately $2.4 billion. About $1.5 billion will be 
dedicated to our U.S. business, primarily focused on 
accelerating the pace of EOTF. We expect to complete 
EOTF at nearly 4,000 additional U.S. restaurants in 2018, 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    17

 
resulting in about half of the total U.S. restaurants 
modernized by the end of 2018. Of the remaining capital, 
about half will be dedicated to new restaurant openings and 
the remainder will be allocated to reinvestment in continued 
expansion of EOTF around the world. The Company’s 
capital will contribute towards about 250 restaurant 
openings, while developmental licensees and affiliates will 
contribute capital towards the opening of approximately 750 
restaurants, for a total of about 1,000 expected restaurant 
openings in 2018. The Company expects net additions of 
about 600 restaurants in 2018. 

Long-Term Outlook

• 

• 

• 

• 

The Company expects to realize net annual G&A savings of 
about $500 million from its G&A base of $2.6 billion at the 
beginning of 2015. Through the end of 2017, the Company 
realized cumulative savings of about $300 million and expects 
to fully realize its targeted $500 million of net savings in 2019. 

The Company expects an incremental cash flow benefit of 
$400 to $500 million annually as a result of the Tax Act, prior 
to any reinvestment. 

The Company expects to return about $24 billion to 
shareholders over the three-year period ending 2019. As the 
business grows, the Company also expects to modestly 
increase its debt levels, while maintaining its credit metrics 
within current ranges. 

Beginning in 2019, the Company expects to achieve the 
following long-term, average annual (constant currency) 
financial targets:

Systemwide sales growth of 3-5%;

  Operating margin in the mid-40% range;

Earnings per share growth in the high-single digits; and

  ROIIC in the mid-20% range.

Consolidated Operating Results

Operating results

Dollars and shares in millions, except per share data

Revenues
Sales by Company-operated restaurants
Revenues from franchised restaurants

Total revenues

Operating costs and expenses
Company-operated restaurant expenses
Franchised restaurants-occupancy expenses
Selling, general & administrative expenses
Other operating (income) expense, net

Total operating costs and expenses

Operating income
Interest expense
Nonoperating (income) expense, net
Income before provision for income taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Earnings per common share—diluted
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—

diluted

n/m Not meaningful

2017

Increase/

(decrease)

(17%)

8

(7)

(18)

4

(6)

n/m

(21)

23

4

25

55

n/m

11%

17%

(5%)

Amount

$12,719

10,101

22,820

10,410

1,789

2,231

(1,163)

13,267

9,553

922

58

8,573

3,381

$ 5,192

$

6.37

815.5

Amount

$15,295

9,327

24,622

12,699

1,718

2,384

76

16,877

7,745

885

(6)

6,866

2,180

$ 4,686

$

5.44

861.2

2016

Increase/

(decrease)

(7%)

5

(3)

(9)

4

(2)

(64)

(8)

8

39

87

5

8

3%

13%

(9%)

2015

Amount

$16,488

8,925

25,413

13,977

1,647

2,434

209

18,267

7,146

638

(48)

6,556

2,027

$ 4,529

$

4.80

944.6

IMPACT OF FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION ON REPORTED RESULTS
While changes in foreign currency exchange rates affect reported results, McDonald’s mitigates exposures, where practical, by purchasing 
goods and services in local currencies, financing in local currencies and hedging certain foreign-denominated cash flows.

In 2017, results reflected the stronger Euro, offset by the weaker British Pound. In 2016 and 2015, results were negatively impacted by 

weaker foreign currencies.

Impact of foreign currency translation on reported results

In millions, except per share data
Revenues
Company-operated margins
Franchised margins
Selling, general & administrative expenses
Operating income
Net income
Earnings per common share—diluted

$22,820

$24,622

$25,413

$

$ (692)

$ (2,829)

Reported amount

2017

2016

2015

2,309

8,312

2,231

9,553

5,192

6.37

2,596

7,609

2,384

7,745

4,686

5.44

2,511

7,278

2,434

7,146

4,529

4.80

2017

186

(10)

17

25

28

2

—

Currency translation

benefit/(cost)

2016

2015

(89)

(118)

28

(173)

(97)

(0.11)

(331)

(626)

158

(771)

(473)

(0.50)

NET INCOME AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
In 2017, net income increased 11% (11% in constant currencies) 
to $5.2 billion and diluted earnings per common share increased 
17% (17% in constant currencies) to $6.37. Foreign currency 
translation had no impact on diluted earnings per share. 

In 2016, net income increased 3% (6% in constant 

currencies) to $4.7 billion and diluted earnings per common share 
increased 13% (16% in constant currencies) to $5.44. Foreign 
currency translation had a negative impact of $0.11 on diluted 
earnings per share. 

Results in 2017 reflected stronger operating performance, 

G&A savings and improved performance in Japan, which enabled 
the reversal of a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset in 
Japan. 2017 results included approximately $700 million of net tax 
cost associated with the Tax Act, reflecting provisional amounts 
related to the deemed repatriation charge of approximately $1.2 
billion, partly offset by a benefit of approximately $500 million 
resulting from the revaluation of deferred tax assets and liabilities 

to the lower enacted U.S. corporate tax rate of 21%.  In addition to 

the $0.82 per share of net tax cost associated with the Tax Act, 

2017 results included a net benefit of $0.53 per share consisting of 

an approximate $850 million gain on the sale of the Company’s 

businesses in China and Hong Kong, offset in part by $150 million 

of current year restructuring and non-cash impairment charges in 

connection with the Company’s global G&A and refranchising 

initiatives. Excluding the above items, as well as $342 million of 

prior year strategic charges, net income was $5.4 billion, an 

increase of 10% (10% in constant currencies), and diluted 

earnings per share was $6.66, an increase of 16% (16% in 

constant currencies).

 Results in 2016 benefited from stronger operating 

performance and higher gains on sales of restaurant businesses, 

mostly in the U.S. Results in 2016 included $342 million, or $0.28 

per share, of strategic charges.

18    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    19

 
 
 
 
  
 
resulting in about half of the total U.S. restaurants 

modernized by the end of 2018. Of the remaining capital, 

about half will be dedicated to new restaurant openings and 

the remainder will be allocated to reinvestment in continued 

expansion of EOTF around the world. The Company’s 

capital will contribute towards about 250 restaurant 

openings, while developmental licensees and affiliates will 

contribute capital towards the opening of approximately 750 

restaurants, for a total of about 1,000 expected restaurant 

openings in 2018. The Company expects net additions of 

about 600 restaurants in 2018. 

Long-Term Outlook

• 

• 

• 

The Company expects to realize net annual G&A savings of 

about $500 million from its G&A base of $2.6 billion at the 

beginning of 2015. Through the end of 2017, the Company 

realized cumulative savings of about $300 million and expects 

to fully realize its targeted $500 million of net savings in 2019. 

The Company expects an incremental cash flow benefit of 

$400 to $500 million annually as a result of the Tax Act, prior 

to any reinvestment. 

The Company expects to return about $24 billion to 

shareholders over the three-year period ending 2019. As the 

business grows, the Company also expects to modestly 

increase its debt levels, while maintaining its credit metrics 

within current ranges. 

• 

Beginning in 2019, the Company expects to achieve the 

following long-term, average annual (constant currency) 

financial targets:

Systemwide sales growth of 3-5%;

  Operating margin in the mid-40% range;

Earnings per share growth in the high-single digits; and

  ROIIC in the mid-20% range.

Consolidated Operating Results

Operating results

Dollars and shares in millions, except per share data

Revenues
Sales by Company-operated restaurants
Revenues from franchised restaurants

Total revenues

Operating costs and expenses
Company-operated restaurant expenses
Franchised restaurants-occupancy expenses
Selling, general & administrative expenses
Other operating (income) expense, net

Total operating costs and expenses

Operating income
Interest expense
Nonoperating (income) expense, net
Income before provision for income taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Earnings per common share—diluted
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—

diluted

n/m Not meaningful

2017
Increase/
(decrease)

(17%)
8
(7)

(18)
4
(6)
n/m

(21)
23
4
n/m
25
55
11%
17%

Amount

$12,719
10,101
22,820

10,410
1,789
2,231
(1,163)
13,267
9,553
922
58
8,573
3,381
$ 5,192
6.37
$

Amount

$15,295
9,327
24,622

12,699
1,718
2,384
76
16,877
7,745
885
(6)
6,866
2,180
$ 4,686
5.44
$

2016
Increase/
(decrease)

(7%)
5
(3)

(9)
4
(2)
(64)
(8)
8
39
87
5
8
3%
13%

2015

Amount

$16,488
8,925
25,413

13,977
1,647
2,434
209
18,267
7,146
638
(48)
6,556
2,027
$ 4,529
4.80
$

815.5

(5%)

861.2

(9%)

944.6

IMPACT OF FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION ON REPORTED RESULTS
While changes in foreign currency exchange rates affect reported results, McDonald’s mitigates exposures, where practical, by purchasing 
goods and services in local currencies, financing in local currencies and hedging certain foreign-denominated cash flows.

In 2017, results reflected the stronger Euro, offset by the weaker British Pound. In 2016 and 2015, results were negatively impacted by 

weaker foreign currencies.

Impact of foreign currency translation on reported results

In millions, except per share data
Revenues
Company-operated margins
Franchised margins
Selling, general & administrative expenses
Operating income
Net income
Earnings per common share—diluted

2017
$22,820
2,309
8,312
2,231
9,553
5,192
6.37

Reported amount

2016
$24,622
2,596
7,609
2,384
7,745
4,686
5.44

2015
$25,413
2,511
7,278
2,434
7,146
4,529
4.80

$

2017
186
17
25
(10)
28
2
—

Currency translation
benefit/(cost)
2015
$ (2,829)
(331)
(626)
158
(771)
(473)
(0.50)

2016
$ (692)
(89)
(118)
28
(173)
(97)
(0.11)

NET INCOME AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
In 2017, net income increased 11% (11% in constant currencies) 
to $5.2 billion and diluted earnings per common share increased 
17% (17% in constant currencies) to $6.37. Foreign currency 
translation had no impact on diluted earnings per share. 
In 2016, net income increased 3% (6% in constant 

currencies) to $4.7 billion and diluted earnings per common share 
increased 13% (16% in constant currencies) to $5.44. Foreign 
currency translation had a negative impact of $0.11 on diluted 
earnings per share. 

Results in 2017 reflected stronger operating performance, 
G&A savings and improved performance in Japan, which enabled 
the reversal of a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset in 
Japan. 2017 results included approximately $700 million of net tax 
cost associated with the Tax Act, reflecting provisional amounts 
related to the deemed repatriation charge of approximately $1.2 
billion, partly offset by a benefit of approximately $500 million 
resulting from the revaluation of deferred tax assets and liabilities 

to the lower enacted U.S. corporate tax rate of 21%.  In addition to 
the $0.82 per share of net tax cost associated with the Tax Act, 
2017 results included a net benefit of $0.53 per share consisting of 
an approximate $850 million gain on the sale of the Company’s 
businesses in China and Hong Kong, offset in part by $150 million 
of current year restructuring and non-cash impairment charges in 
connection with the Company’s global G&A and refranchising 
initiatives. Excluding the above items, as well as $342 million of 
prior year strategic charges, net income was $5.4 billion, an 
increase of 10% (10% in constant currencies), and diluted 
earnings per share was $6.66, an increase of 16% (16% in 
constant currencies).

 Results in 2016 benefited from stronger operating 

performance and higher gains on sales of restaurant businesses, 
mostly in the U.S. Results in 2016 included $342 million, or $0.28 
per share, of strategic charges.

18    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    19

 
 
 
 
  
 
The Company repurchased 31.4 million shares of its stock for 

$4.6 billion in 2017 and 92.3 million shares of its stock for $11.1 
billion in 2016, driving reductions in weighted-average shares 
outstanding on a diluted basis in both periods, which positively 
benefited earnings per share.

The following tables present comparable sales, comparable guest counts and Systemwide sales increases/(decreases):

Comparable sales and guest count increases/(decreases)

REVENUES
The Company’s revenues consist of sales by Company-operated restaurants and fees from restaurants operated by franchisees. Revenues 
from conventional franchised restaurants include rent and royalties based on a percent of sales, minimum rent payments and initial fees. 
Revenues from franchised restaurants that are licensed to foreign affiliates and developmental licensees include a royalty based on a 
percent of sales, and generally include initial fees.

Between 2015 and 2017, the Company accelerated the pace of refranchising to optimize its restaurant ownership mix, generate more 

stable and predictable revenue and cash flow streams, and operate with a less resource-intensive structure. The shift to a greater 
percentage of franchised restaurants negatively impacts consolidated revenues as Company-operated sales are replaced by franchised 
sales, where the Company receives rent and/or royalty revenue based on a percentage of sales.

In 2017, revenues decreased 7% (8% in constant currencies) and in 2016, revenues decreased 3% (flat in constant currencies). For 

both periods, the decreases in revenues were due to the impact of refranchising, partly offset by positive comparable sales.

U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

2015.

Systemwide sales increases/(decreases)*

*  Beginning in 2017, the Company excluded sales from markets identified as hyper-inflationary (currently only Venezuela) from the comparable sales 

calculation as the Company believes this more accurately reflects the underlying business trends. There was no significant impact related to 2016 or 

Revenues

Dollars in millions

Company-operated sales:
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Franchised revenues:
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Total revenues:
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Amount

Increase/(decrease)

Increase/(decrease) 
excluding currency 
translation

2017

2016

2015

2017

2016

2017

2016

$ 3,260
4,080
4,592
787
$12,719

$ 4,746
3,260
942
1,154
$10,102

$ 8,006
7,340
5,533
1,941
$22,820

$ 3,743
4,278
5,378
1,896
$15,295

$ 4,510
2,945
783
1,089
$ 9,327

$ 8,253
7,223
6,161
2,985
$24,622

$ 4,198
4,798
5,442
2,050
$16,488

$ 4,361
2,817
731
1,016
$ 8,925

$ 8,559
7,615
6,173
3,066
$25,413

(13%)
(5)
(15)
(58)
(17%)

5%

11
20
6
8%

(3%)
2
(10)
(35)

(7%)

(11%)
(11)
(1)
(8)
(7%)

3%
5
7
7
5%

(4%)
(5)
—
(3)
(3%)

(13%)
(4)
(17)
(59)
(18%)

5%

10
18
7
8%

(3%)
1
(13)
(35)

(8%)

(11%)
(6)
4
(5)
(4%)

3%
8
9
11

6%

(4%)
(1)
4
1
—%

•  US: In 2017 and 2016, the decrease in revenues reflected the 
impact of refranchising, partly offset by positive comparable 
sales.

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017, the increase in 
revenues was due to strong performance in the U.K. and 
Canada as well as positive comparable sales across all 
markets, partly offset by the impact of refranchising. In 2016, 
the decrease in revenues was due to the impact of 
refranchising, partly offset by strong comparable sales growth 
across most of the segment.

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the decrease in revenues 
reflected the impact of refranchising the Company's 
businesses in China and Hong Kong, partly offset by positive 
comparable sales across most markets.  In 2016, revenue 
growth was negatively impacted by foreign currency 
translation. In constant currencies, 2016 revenues increased 
due to positive comparable sales growth in China and most 
other markets, and expansion in Russia.

U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

*  Unlike comparable sales, the Company has not excluded hyper-inflationary market results from Systemwide sales as these sales are the basis on 

which the Company calculates and records revenues. The difference between comparable sales growth rates and Systemwide sales growth rates are 

due to both restaurant expansion and the hyper-inflationary impact.

Franchised sales are not recorded as revenues by the Company, but are the basis on which the Company calculates and records 

franchised revenues and are indicative of the financial health of the franchisee base. The following table presents franchised sales and the 
related increases/(decreases):

Franchised sales

Dollars in millions
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Ownership type
Conventional franchised
Developmental licensed
Foreign affiliated

Total

2017

2016

$34,379

$32,646

$31,639

18,820

6,888

18,104

17,049

4,858

15,154

$78,191

$69,707

$66,226

Amount

2015

16,313

4,525

13,749

$59,151

$56,035

$54,045

12,546

6,494

9,082

4,590

8,539

3,642

$78,191

$69,707

$66,226

Increase/(decrease)

Increase/(decrease) 

excluding currency 

translation

2017

5%

10

42

19

12%

6%

38

41

12%

2016

3%

5

7

10

5%

4%

6

26

5%

2017

5%

9

39

24

13%

5%

44

44

13%

2016

3%

8

10

14

7%

5%

17

15

7%

2017

Guest

Counts

1.0%

2.3

1.8

3.3

Sales

3.6%

5.3

5.3

9.0

*

2016

Guest

Counts

(2.1%)

1.5

(0.8)

1.9

2015

Guest

Counts

(3.0%)

1.0

(2.2)

(3.7)

Sales

0.5%

3.4

1.8

0.7

Sales

1.7%

3.4

2.8

10.0

5.3% *

1.9%

3.8%

(0.3%)

1.5%

(2.3%)

Increase/(decrease) 

excluding currency 

translation

2017

3%

7

12

11

7%

2016

2%

1

3

8

3%

2017

3%

7

10

14

7%

2016

2%

5

6

11

5%

20    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    21

 
 
 
  
 
 
The Company repurchased 31.4 million shares of its stock for 

$4.6 billion in 2017 and 92.3 million shares of its stock for $11.1 

billion in 2016, driving reductions in weighted-average shares 

outstanding on a diluted basis in both periods, which positively 

benefited earnings per share.

REVENUES

The Company’s revenues consist of sales by Company-operated restaurants and fees from restaurants operated by franchisees. Revenues 

from conventional franchised restaurants include rent and royalties based on a percent of sales, minimum rent payments and initial fees. 

Revenues from franchised restaurants that are licensed to foreign affiliates and developmental licensees include a royalty based on a 

percent of sales, and generally include initial fees.

U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Between 2015 and 2017, the Company accelerated the pace of refranchising to optimize its restaurant ownership mix, generate more 

Total

2017

Guest
Counts
1.0%
2.3
1.8
3.3
1.9%

Sales

3.6%
5.3
5.3
9.0
*
5.3% *

2016

Guest
Counts
(2.1%)
1.5
(0.8)
1.9
(0.3%)

2015

Guest
Counts
(3.0%)
1.0
(2.2)
(3.7)
(2.3%)

Sales

0.5%
3.4
1.8
0.7
1.5%

Sales

1.7%
3.4
2.8
10.0

3.8%

The following tables present comparable sales, comparable guest counts and Systemwide sales increases/(decreases):

Comparable sales and guest count increases/(decreases)

stable and predictable revenue and cash flow streams, and operate with a less resource-intensive structure. The shift to a greater 

percentage of franchised restaurants negatively impacts consolidated revenues as Company-operated sales are replaced by franchised 

sales, where the Company receives rent and/or royalty revenue based on a percentage of sales.

In 2017, revenues decreased 7% (8% in constant currencies) and in 2016, revenues decreased 3% (flat in constant currencies). For 

both periods, the decreases in revenues were due to the impact of refranchising, partly offset by positive comparable sales.

Amount

Increase/(decrease)

Increase/(decrease) 
excluding currency 
translation

2017

2016

2015

2017

2016

2017

2016

$ 3,260

$ 3,743

$ 4,198

(13%)

(13%)

(11%)

(4)

(17)

(59)

(18%)

5%

10

18

7

8%

(3%)

1

(13)

(35)

(6)

4

(5)

(4%)

3%

8

9

11

6%

(4%)

(1)

4

1

—%

Revenues

Dollars in millions

Company-operated sales:

International Lead Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets & Corporate

Franchised revenues:

U.S.

Total

U.S.

International Lead Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

U.S.

Total revenues:

International Lead Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

$12,719

$15,295

$16,488

(17%)

$ 4,746

$ 4,510

$ 4,361

5%

4,080

4,592

787

3,260

942

1,154

7,340

5,533

1,941

4,278

5,378

1,896

2,945

783

1,089

7,223

6,161

2,985

4,798

5,442

2,050

2,817

731

1,016

7,615

6,173

3,066

(5)

(15)

(58)

11

20

6

2

(10)

(35)

(11%)

(11)

(1)

(8)

(7%)

3%

5

7

7

5%

(5)

—

(3)

$10,102

$ 9,327

$ 8,925

8%

$ 8,006

$ 8,253

$ 8,559

(3%)

(4%)

$22,820

$24,622

$25,413

(7%)

(3%)

(8%)

•  US: In 2017 and 2016, the decrease in revenues reflected the 

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the decrease in revenues 

impact of refranchising, partly offset by positive comparable 

reflected the impact of refranchising the Company's 

sales.

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017, the increase in 

revenues was due to strong performance in the U.K. and 

Canada as well as positive comparable sales across all 

markets, partly offset by the impact of refranchising. In 2016, 

the decrease in revenues was due to the impact of 

refranchising, partly offset by strong comparable sales growth 

across most of the segment.

businesses in China and Hong Kong, partly offset by positive 

comparable sales across most markets.  In 2016, revenue 

growth was negatively impacted by foreign currency 

translation. In constant currencies, 2016 revenues increased 

due to positive comparable sales growth in China and most 

other markets, and expansion in Russia.

*  Beginning in 2017, the Company excluded sales from markets identified as hyper-inflationary (currently only Venezuela) from the comparable sales 
calculation as the Company believes this more accurately reflects the underlying business trends. There was no significant impact related to 2016 or 
2015.

Systemwide sales increases/(decreases)*

U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Increase/(decrease) 
excluding currency 
translation

2017
3%
7
12
11

7%

2016
2%
1
3
8
3%

2017
3%
7
10
14

7%

2016
2%
5
6
11

5%

*  Unlike comparable sales, the Company has not excluded hyper-inflationary market results from Systemwide sales as these sales are the basis on 
which the Company calculates and records revenues. The difference between comparable sales growth rates and Systemwide sales growth rates are 
due to both restaurant expansion and the hyper-inflationary impact.

Franchised sales are not recorded as revenues by the Company, but are the basis on which the Company calculates and records 
franchised revenues and are indicative of the financial health of the franchisee base. The following table presents franchised sales and the 
related increases/(decreases):

Franchised sales

Dollars in millions
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Ownership type
Conventional franchised
Developmental licensed
Foreign affiliated

Total

2017
$34,379
18,820
6,888
18,104
$78,191

2016
$32,646
17,049
4,858
15,154
$69,707

Amount

2015
$31,639
16,313
4,525
13,749
$66,226

$59,151
12,546
6,494
$78,191

$56,035
9,082
4,590
$69,707

$54,045
8,539
3,642
$66,226

Increase/(decrease)

Increase/(decrease) 
excluding currency 
translation

2017
5%

10
42
19
12%

6%

38
41
12%

2016
3%
5
7
10

5%

4%
6
26

5%

2017
5%
9
39
24
13%

5%

44
44
13%

2016
3%
8
10
14

7%

5%

17
15

7%

20    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    21

 
 
 
  
 
 
FRANCHISED MARGINS
Franchised margin dollars represent revenues from franchised restaurants less the Company’s occupancy costs (rent and depreciation) 
associated with those sites. Franchised margin dollars represented about 80% of the combined restaurant margins in 2017 and about 75% 
of the combined restaurant margins in 2016 and 2015. 

In 2017, franchised margin dollars increased $703 million or 9% (9% in constant currencies). In 2016, franchised margin dollars 
increased $331 million or 5% (6% in constant currencies). For both 2017 and 2016, the constant currency increases were due to positive 
comparable sales performance, refranchising and expansion.

Franchised margins

Dollars in millions
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Amount

% of
Revenue

Amount

% of
Revenue

Amount

% of
Revenue

Increase/
(decrease)

2017

2016

2015

$3,913
2,634
693
1,072
$8,312

82.4% $3,726
2,363
80.8
550
73.6
970
92.9
82.3% $7,609

82.6% $3,606
2,254
80.2
520
70.2
89.1
898
81.6% $7,278

82.7%
80.0
71.1
88.3
81.5%

2017
5%

11
26
10

9%

2016
3%
5
6
8
5%

Increase/(decrease)
excluding currency
translation

2017
5%

10
24
12

9%

2016
3%
8
8
12

6%

•  U.S.: In 2017 and 2016, the decrease in the franchised 

margin percent was primarily due to higher depreciation costs 
related to EOTF and restaurant modernization, partly offset by 
positive comparable sales.

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017 and 2016, the 
increases in the franchised margin percent reflected the 
benefit from positive comparable sales performance, partly 
offset by the impact of refranchising and higher occupancy 
costs. 

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the increase in the 
franchised margin percent was due to the impact of 
refranchising, largely related to the China and Hong Kong 
transaction, and strong comparable sales performance. In 
2016, the decrease was primarily due to the impact of 
refranchising and higher occupancy costs, partly offset by the 
benefit of positive comparable sales performance.

The franchised margin percent in Foundational Markets & 
Corporate is higher relative to the other segments due to a larger 
proportion of developmental licensed and affiliated restaurants 
where the Company receives royalty income with no 
corresponding occupancy costs. 

SELLING, GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 6% (7% in constant currencies) in 2017 and decreased 2% (1% in 
constant currencies) in 2016. The decrease in 2017 was due to lower employee-related costs, partly offset by higher restaurant technology 
spending. The decrease in 2016 was primarily due to lower employee-related costs, mostly offset by higher incentive-based compensation 
expenses.

Selling, general & administrative expenses

Amount

Increase/(decrease)

Dollars in millions
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate(1)

2017

$ 624

2016

2015

$ 741

$ 766

451

248

908

464

294

885

534

326

808

Total (Selling, General & Administrative Expenses) $2,231

$2,384

$2,434

Less:  Incentive-Based Compensation(2)

336

418

317

Total (Excluding Incentive-Based Compensation)

2017

(16%)

(3)

(16)

3

(6%)

(20%)

(4%)

2016

(3%)

(13)

(10)

10

(2%)

32%

(7%)

$1,895

$1,966

$2,117

(4%) (3)

(6%) (4)

Increase/(decrease) 

excluding currency 

translation

2017

(16%)

(4)

(17)

2

(7%)

(20%)

2016

(3%)

(10)

(6)

10

(1%)

33%

(1) 

Included in Foundational Markets & Corporate are home office support costs in areas such as facilities, finance, human resources, information technology, legal, 

marketing, restaurant operations, supply chain and training.

(2) 

Includes all cash incentives and share-based compensation expense.

(3)  Excludes $9.4 million of foreign currency cost.

(4)  Excludes $24.8 million of foreign currency benefit.

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of Systemwide sales was 2.5% in 2017, 2.8% in 2016 and 2.9% in 2015. 

Management believes that analyzing selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of Systemwide sales is meaningful because 
these costs are incurred to support the overall McDonald's business. 

In connection with our turnaround plan, the Company established a net selling, general and administrative savings target of $500 million 

from its G&A base of $2.6 billion at the beginning of 2015. The Company expects to fully realize its targeted $500 million of net savings in 
2019.  

COMPANY-OPERATED MARGINS
Company-operated margin dollars represent sales by Company-operated restaurants less the operating costs of these restaurants. In 2017, 
Company-operated margin dollars decreased $287 million or 11% (12% in constant currencies). In 2016, Company-operated margin dollars 
increased $85 million or 3% (7% in constant currencies).

OTHER OPERATING (INCOME) EXPENSE, NET

Other operating (income) expense, net

Company-operated margins

Dollars in millions
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

Amount

% of
Revenue

Amount

% of
Revenue

Amount

% of
Revenue

Increase/
(decrease)

2017

2016

2015

$ 523
861
781
144
$2,309

16.0% $ 618
886
21.1
796
17.0
296
18.3
18.2% $2,596

16.5% $ 632
961
20.7
659
14.8
259
15.6
17.0% $2,511

15.1%
20.0
12.1
12.7
15.2%

2017
(15%)
(3)
(2)
(51)
(11%)

2016
(2%)
(8)
21
14

3%

Increase/(decrease)
excluding currency
translation

2017
(15%)
(3)
(4)
(53)
(12%)

2016
(2%)
(3)
26
17

7%

•  U.S.: In 2017, the Company-operated margin percent 

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the increase in the 

decreased as strong comparable sales were offset by higher 
commodity and labor costs as well as additional depreciation 
costs related to EOTF. In 2016, the increase was due to a 
higher average check and lower commodity costs, partly 
offset by the impact of negative guest counts and higher labor 
costs.

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017 and 2016, the 
increases in the Company-operated margin percent were 
primarily due to positive comparable sales, partly offset by 
higher labor and occupancy costs.  2017 was also negatively 
impacted by higher commodity costs.

Company-operated margin percent was primarily due to 
strong comparable sales and the benefit of lower depreciation 
in China and Hong Kong. This increase was partly offset by 
negative comparable sales in South Korea and the impact of 
refranchising. In 2016, the increase was primarily due to 
positive comparable sales and improved restaurant 
profitability in China, which benefited from value-added tax 
("VAT") reform, partly offset by higher labor costs across the 
segment. 

In millions
Gains on sales of restaurant

businesses

Equity in (earnings) losses of

unconsolidated affiliates

Asset dispositions and other

(income) expense, net

Impairment and other charges

(gains), net

Total

2017

2016

2015

$ (295) $ (283) $ (146)

(184)

(55)

147

China.

19

(703)

72

342

76

(27)

235

209

$ (1,163) $

$

•  Gains on sales of restaurant businesses
In 2017, gains on sales of restaurant businesses remained 
relatively flat. In 2016, the Company realized higher gains on sales 
of restaurant businesses, primarily in the U.S.

Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated affiliates

• 
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates improved in 2017 
and 2016 mainly due to improved performance in Japan. 2017 
results also benefited from the reversal of a valuation allowance 
on a deferred tax asset in Japan.

•  Asset dispositions and other (income) expense, net

In 2017, results benefited due to a property disposition gain in 

Australia.  In 2015, results included a gain of $135 million on the 

strategic sale of a unique restaurant property in the U.S., mostly 

offset by asset write-offs of $72 million resulting from the decision 

to close under-performing restaurants, primarily in the U.S. and 

• 

Impairment and other charges (gains), net

In 2017, results reflected the gain on the Company's sale of its 

businesses in China and Hong Kong of approximately $850 

million, partly offset by $111 million of unrelated non-cash 

impairment charges. The results for all three years included 

restructuring and impairment charges related to the Company's 

global refranchising and G&A initiatives.

22    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    23

 
 
 
 
comparable sales performance, refranchising and expansion.

Franchised margins

FRANCHISED MARGINS

Franchised margin dollars represent revenues from franchised restaurants less the Company’s occupancy costs (rent and depreciation) 

associated with those sites. Franchised margin dollars represented about 80% of the combined restaurant margins in 2017 and about 75% 

of the combined restaurant margins in 2016 and 2015. 

In 2017, franchised margin dollars increased $703 million or 9% (9% in constant currencies). In 2016, franchised margin dollars 

increased $331 million or 5% (6% in constant currencies). For both 2017 and 2016, the constant currency increases were due to positive 

SELLING, GENERAL & ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
Consolidated selling, general and administrative expenses decreased 6% (7% in constant currencies) in 2017 and decreased 2% (1% in 
constant currencies) in 2016. The decrease in 2017 was due to lower employee-related costs, partly offset by higher restaurant technology 
spending. The decrease in 2016 was primarily due to lower employee-related costs, mostly offset by higher incentive-based compensation 
expenses.

Selling, general & administrative expenses

Dollars in millions

U.S.

International Lead Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets & Corporate

$3,913

2,634

693

1,072

80.8

73.6

92.9

Amount

Revenue

Amount

Revenue

Amount

Revenue

% of

% of

% of

Increase/

(decrease)

Increase/(decrease)
excluding currency
translation

2017

2016

2015

82.4% $3,726

82.6% $3,606

82.7%

2017

2016

5%

3%

2017

5%

2016
3%

2,363

550

970

80.2

70.2

89.1

2,254

520

898

80.0

71.1

88.3

11

26

10

5

6

8

10

24

12

8

8

12

Total

$8,312

82.3% $7,609

81.6% $7,278

81.5%

9%

5%

9%

6%

•  U.S.: In 2017 and 2016, the decrease in the franchised 

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the increase in the 

margin percent was primarily due to higher depreciation costs 

franchised margin percent was due to the impact of 

related to EOTF and restaurant modernization, partly offset by 

refranchising, largely related to the China and Hong Kong 

positive comparable sales.

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017 and 2016, the 

increases in the franchised margin percent reflected the 

benefit from positive comparable sales performance, partly 

offset by the impact of refranchising and higher occupancy 

costs. 

transaction, and strong comparable sales performance. In 

2016, the decrease was primarily due to the impact of 

refranchising and higher occupancy costs, partly offset by the 

benefit of positive comparable sales performance.

The franchised margin percent in Foundational Markets & 

Corporate is higher relative to the other segments due to a larger 

proportion of developmental licensed and affiliated restaurants 

where the Company receives royalty income with no 

corresponding occupancy costs. 

COMPANY-OPERATED MARGINS

Company-operated margin dollars represent sales by Company-operated restaurants less the operating costs of these restaurants. In 2017, 
Company-operated margin dollars decreased $287 million or 11% (12% in constant currencies). In 2016, Company-operated margin dollars 

increased $85 million or 3% (7% in constant currencies).

Company-operated margins

Dollars in millions

U.S.

Amount

Revenue

Amount

Revenue

Amount

Revenue

% of

% of

% of

2017

2016

2015

$ 523

16.0% $ 618

16.5% $ 632

15.1%

International Lead Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets & Corporate

861

781

144

21.1

17.0

18.3

886

796

296

20.7

14.8

15.6

961

659

259

20.0

12.1

12.7

Increase/

(decrease)

2017

(15%)

2016

(2%)

(3)

(2)

(51)

(8)

21

14

Increase/(decrease)
excluding currency
translation

2017

(15%)

(3)

(4)

(53)

2016
(2%)

(3)

26

17

Total

$2,309

18.2% $2,596

17.0% $2,511

15.2%

(11%)

3%

(12%)

7%

•  U.S.: In 2017, the Company-operated margin percent 

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the increase in the 

decreased as strong comparable sales were offset by higher 

Company-operated margin percent was primarily due to 

commodity and labor costs as well as additional depreciation 

strong comparable sales and the benefit of lower depreciation 

costs related to EOTF. In 2016, the increase was due to a 

higher average check and lower commodity costs, partly 

offset by the impact of negative guest counts and higher labor 

costs.

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017 and 2016, the 

increases in the Company-operated margin percent were 

primarily due to positive comparable sales, partly offset by 

higher labor and occupancy costs.  2017 was also negatively 

impacted by higher commodity costs.

in China and Hong Kong. This increase was partly offset by 

negative comparable sales in South Korea and the impact of 

refranchising. In 2016, the increase was primarily due to 

positive comparable sales and improved restaurant 

profitability in China, which benefited from value-added tax 

("VAT") reform, partly offset by higher labor costs across the 

segment. 

Dollars in millions
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate(1)

2017
$ 624
451
248
908
Total (Selling, General & Administrative Expenses) $2,231

2016
$ 741
464
294
885
$2,384

Amount

2015
$ 766
534
326
808
$2,434

Less:  Incentive-Based Compensation(2)

336

418

317

Total (Excluding Incentive-Based Compensation)

$1,895

$1,966

$2,117

Increase/(decrease)

Increase/(decrease) 
excluding currency 
translation

2017
(16%)
(3)
(16)
3
(6%)

(20%)

(4%)

2016
(3%)

(13)
(10)
10
(2%)

32%

(7%)

2017
(16%)
(4)
(17)
2
(7%)

(20%)

2016
(3%)

(10)
(6)
10
(1%)

33%

(4%) (3)

(6%) (4)

(1) 

Included in Foundational Markets & Corporate are home office support costs in areas such as facilities, finance, human resources, information technology, legal, 
marketing, restaurant operations, supply chain and training.

(2) 

Includes all cash incentives and share-based compensation expense.

(3)  Excludes $9.4 million of foreign currency cost.

(4)  Excludes $24.8 million of foreign currency benefit.

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of Systemwide sales was 2.5% in 2017, 2.8% in 2016 and 2.9% in 2015. 
Management believes that analyzing selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of Systemwide sales is meaningful because 
these costs are incurred to support the overall McDonald's business. 

In connection with our turnaround plan, the Company established a net selling, general and administrative savings target of $500 million 

from its G&A base of $2.6 billion at the beginning of 2015. The Company expects to fully realize its targeted $500 million of net savings in 
2019.  

OTHER OPERATING (INCOME) EXPENSE, NET

Other operating (income) expense, net

In millions
Gains on sales of restaurant

businesses

Equity in (earnings) losses of
unconsolidated affiliates
Asset dispositions and other
(income) expense, net

Impairment and other charges

(gains), net
Total

2017

2016

2015

$ (295) $ (283) $ (146)

(184)

(55)

147

19

(703)
$ (1,163) $

72

342
76

(27)

235
209

$

•  Gains on sales of restaurant businesses
In 2017, gains on sales of restaurant businesses remained 
relatively flat. In 2016, the Company realized higher gains on sales 
of restaurant businesses, primarily in the U.S.

Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated affiliates
• 
Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates improved in 2017 
and 2016 mainly due to improved performance in Japan. 2017 
results also benefited from the reversal of a valuation allowance 
on a deferred tax asset in Japan.

•  Asset dispositions and other (income) expense, net
In 2017, results benefited due to a property disposition gain in 
Australia.  In 2015, results included a gain of $135 million on the 
strategic sale of a unique restaurant property in the U.S., mostly 
offset by asset write-offs of $72 million resulting from the decision 
to close under-performing restaurants, primarily in the U.S. and 
China.

Impairment and other charges (gains), net

• 
In 2017, results reflected the gain on the Company's sale of its 
businesses in China and Hong Kong of approximately $850 
million, partly offset by $111 million of unrelated non-cash 
impairment charges. The results for all three years included 
restructuring and impairment charges related to the Company's 
global refranchising and G&A initiatives.

22    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    23

 
 
 
 
OPERATING INCOME

Operating income

Dollars in millions
U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

2017
$4,023
3,167
2,001
362
$9,553

2016
$3,769
2,838
1,049
89
$7,745

Amount

2015
$3,612
2,713
841
(20)
$7,146

Increase/(decrease)

2017
7%

12
91
n/m
23%

2016
4%
5
25
n/m
8%

Increase/(decrease)
excluding currency
translation

2017
7%

11
89
n/m
23%

2016
4%
9
29
n/m
11%

•  U.S.: In 2017, the increase in operating income reflected 
higher franchised margin dollars and G&A savings, partly 
offset by lower Company-operated margin dollars. In 2016, 
the increase reflected higher franchised margin dollars and 
higher gains from sales of restaurant businesses, partly offset 
by the negative impact from lapping the 2015 gain on the 
strategic sale of a unique restaurant property.

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017 and 2016, the constant 
currency operating income increase was primarily due to 
sales-driven improvements in franchised margin dollars.  In 
addition, 2017 benefited from a property disposition gain in 
Australia.

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the constant currency 

operating income increase reflected higher franchise margin 
dollars due to sales-driven performance, the impact of 
refranchising and G&A savings. In addition, results benefited 
from lower depreciation expense in China and Hong Kong, 
and also includes the gain on the sale of the Company's 
businesses in China and Hong Kong as well as unrelated 
non-cash impairment charges. Excluding these items, 
operating income increased 17% (15% in constant 
currencies). In 2016, the increase was driven primarily by 
improved restaurant profitability in China.

• 

Foundational Markets and Corporate: In 2017, the constant 
currency operating income increase reflected the Company's 
refranchising initiatives, higher G&A costs at the Corporate 
level due to restaurant technology expenditures, and 
improved performance in Japan, which enabled the reversal 
of a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset in Japan. 
Results also reflected the benefit from comparison to the prior 
year's strategic charges. In 2016, the increase reflected 
Japan's strong performance, partly offset by the net impact of 
the current and prior year impairment and restructuring 
charges from the Company's global refranchising and 
restructuring initiatives.

•  Operating margin 

Operating margin was 41.9% in 2017, 31.5% in 2016 and 
28.1% in 2015. Excluding the previously described current 
year gain and current and prior years strategic charges, 
operating margin was 38.8%, 32.8% and 28.8% for the years 
ended 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

INTEREST EXPENSE
Interest expense increased 4% and 39% in 2017 and 2016, 
respectively, reflecting higher average debt balances, partly offset 
by lower average interest rates.

NONOPERATING (INCOME) EXPENSE, NET

Nonoperating (income) expense, net

In millions
Interest income
Foreign currency and hedging activity
Other expense

Total

2017
$ (7)
26
39
$ 58

2016
$ (4)
(24)
22
$ (6)

2015
$ (9)
(56)
17
$ (48)

Foreign currency and hedging activity includes net gains or losses 
on certain hedges that reduce the exposure to variability on 
certain intercompany foreign currency cash flow streams. 

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES
In 2017, 2016 and 2015, the reported effective income tax rates 
were 39.4%, 31.7% and 30.9%, respectively.

The increase in the tax rate for 2017 reflects provisional 

amounts related to the deemed repatriation charge of 
approximately $1.2 billion, partly offset by a benefit of 
approximately $500 million resulting from the revaluation of 
deferred tax assets and liabilities to the lower enacted U.S. 
corporate tax rate of 21% under the Tax Act. Excluding the impact 
of the Tax Act, the effective income tax rate would have been 
31.6%.

Consolidated net deferred tax liabilities included tax assets, 
net of valuation allowance, of $1.5 billion in 2017 and $2.0 billion 
in 2016. Substantially all of the net tax assets are expected to be 
realized in the U.S. and other profitable markets.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
Recently issued accounting standards are included in Part II, 
Item 8, page 36 of this Form 10-K.

24    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

Cash Flows

The Company generates significant cash from its operations and 
has substantial credit availability and capacity to fund operating 
and discretionary spending such as capital expenditures, debt 
repayments, dividends and share repurchases. 

Cash provided by operations totaled $5.6 billion and free cash 

flow was $3.7 billion in 2017, while cash provided by operations 
totaled $6.1 billion and free cash flow was $4.2 billion in 2016. The 
Company's free cash flow conversion rate was 71% in 2017, and 
90% in 2016 (see reconciliation in Exhibit 12). In 2017, cash 
provided by operations decreased by $508 million or 8% 
compared with 2016, as improved operating results were more 
than offset by higher income tax payments in the U.S. and other 
working capital changes. In 2016, cash provided by operations 
decreased $480 million or 7% compared with 2015, primarily due 
to higher income tax payments primarily outside the U.S. and 
other working capital changes, partly offset by higher net income. 

Cash provided by investing activities totaled $562 million in 

2017, an increase of $1.5 billion compared with 2016. The 
increase is primarily due to proceeds associated with the sale of 
the Company's businesses in China and Hong Kong. Cash used 
for investing activities totaled $982 million in 2016, a decrease of 
$438 million compared with 2015. The decrease primarily reflected 
higher proceeds from sales of restaurant businesses.

Cash used for financing activities totaled $5.3 billion in 2017, 

a decrease of $6 billion compared with 2016, primarily due to 
lower treasury stock purchases, partly offset by a decrease in net 
borrowings. Cash used for financing activities totaled $11.3 billion 
in 2016, an increase of $12.0 billion compared with 2015, primarily 
due to a decrease in net borrowings and higher treasury stock 
purchases.

The Company’s cash and equivalents balance was $2.5 

billion and $1.2 billion at year end 2017 and 2016, respectively. In 
addition to cash and equivalents on hand and cash provided by 
operations, the Company can meet short-term funding needs 
through its continued access to commercial paper borrowings and 
line of credit agreements. 

RESTAURANT DEVELOPMENT AND CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
In 2017, the Company opened 929 restaurants and closed 587 
restaurants. In 2016, the Company opened 896 restaurants and 
closed 522 restaurants. The Company closes restaurants for a 
variety of reasons, such as existing sales and profit performance 
or loss of real estate tenure.

Systemwide restaurants at year end

U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets &

Corporate

Total

2017

14,036

6,921

5,884

10,400

37,241

2016

14,155

6,851

5,552

10,341

36,899

2015

14,259

6,802

5,266

10,198

36,525

More than 90% of the restaurants at year-end 2017 were 

franchised, including 94% in the U.S., 87% in International Lead 
Markets, 81% in High Growth Markets and 98% in Foundational 
Markets.

Capital expenditures were relatively flat in 2017 as higher 

expenditures on restaurant reinvestment were offset by fewer 
restaurant openings that required the Company's capital. Under 
McDonald's developmental licensee and affiliate arrangements, 
licensees provide capital for the entire business and the Company 
generally has no capital invested. Capital expenditures in 2016 
were essentially flat with 2015, primarily due to higher 

reinvestment related to reimages, offset by fewer new restaurant 

openings. 

Capital expenditures invested in the U.S., International Lead 

markets and High Growth markets represented over 90% of the 

total in 2017, 2016 and 2015. 

Capital expenditures  

In millions

New restaurants

Existing restaurants

Other(1)

2017

2016

2015

$

537

$

674

$

1,236

81

1,108

39

892

842

80

Total capital expenditures

Total assets

$ 1,854

$ 1,821

$ 1,814

$33,804

$31,024

$37,939

(1)  Primarily corporate equipment and other office-related expenditures

New restaurant investments in all years were concentrated in 

markets with strong returns and/or opportunities for long-term 

growth. Average development costs vary widely by market 

depending on the types of restaurants built and the real estate and 

construction costs within each market. These costs, which include 

land, buildings and equipment, are managed through the use of 

optimally-sized restaurants, construction and design efficiencies, 

and leveraging best practices. Although the Company is not 

responsible for all costs for every restaurant opened, total 

development costs (consisting of land, buildings and equipment) 

for new traditional McDonald’s restaurants in the U.S. averaged 

approximately $3.9 million in 2017.

The Company owned 45% to 50% of the land and 70% to 

75% of the buildings for restaurants in its consolidated markets at 

year-end 2017 and 2016.

SHARE REPURCHASES AND DIVIDENDS

For 2017 through 2019, the Company expects to return about $24 

billion to shareholders through a combination of share 

repurchases and dividends, subject to business and market 

conditions. In 2017, the Company returned approximately $7.7 

billion to shareholders through a combination of shares 

repurchased and dividends paid.

Shares repurchased and dividends  

In millions, except per share data

Number of shares repurchased

Shares outstanding at year end

2017

31.4

794

2016

92.3

819

2015

61.8

907

Dividends declared per share

$ 3.83

$ 3.61

$ 3.44

Treasury stock purchases (in 

Shareholders' equity)

Dividends paid

$ 4,651

$11,142

$6,182

3,089

3,058

3,230

Total returned to shareholders

$ 7,740

$14,200

$9,412

In December 2015, the Company's Board of Directors 

approved a $15 billion share repurchase program with no 

specified expiration date ("2016 Program"). In July 2017, the 

Company's Board of Directors terminated the 2016 Program and 

replaced it with a new share repurchase program, effective July 

28, 2017, that authorizes the purchase of up to $15 billion of the 

Company's outstanding common stock with no specified expiration 

date. In 2017, approximately 31.4 million shares were 

repurchased for $4.7 billion, of which approximately 17.3 million 

shares or $2.7 billion were repurchased under the new program.

The Company has paid dividends on its common stock for 42 

consecutive years and has increased the dividend amount every 

year. The 2017 full-year dividend of $3.83 per share reflects the 

quarterly dividend paid for each of the first three quarters of $0.94 

per share, with an increase to $1.01 per share paid in the fourth 

quarter. This 7% increase in the quarterly dividend equates to a 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    25

 
 
OPERATING INCOME

Operating income

Dollars in millions

U.S.

International Lead Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets & Corporate

Total

2017

$4,023

3,167

2,001

362

$9,553

2016

$3,769

2,838

1,049

89

Amount

2015

$3,612

2,713

841

(20)

$7,745

$7,146

Increase/(decrease)

2017

7%

12

91

n/m

23%

2016

4%

5

25

n/m

8%

Increase/(decrease)
excluding currency
translation

2017

7%

11

89

n/m

23%

2016
4%

9

29

n/m
11%

•  U.S.: In 2017, the increase in operating income reflected 

INTEREST EXPENSE

higher franchised margin dollars and G&A savings, partly 

offset by lower Company-operated margin dollars. In 2016, 

the increase reflected higher franchised margin dollars and 

higher gains from sales of restaurant businesses, partly offset 

by the negative impact from lapping the 2015 gain on the 

strategic sale of a unique restaurant property.

Interest expense increased 4% and 39% in 2017 and 2016, 

respectively, reflecting higher average debt balances, partly offset 

by lower average interest rates.

NONOPERATING (INCOME) EXPENSE, NET

Nonoperating (income) expense, net

• 

International Lead Markets: In 2017 and 2016, the constant 

currency operating income increase was primarily due to 

sales-driven improvements in franchised margin dollars.  In 

addition, 2017 benefited from a property disposition gain in 

Australia.

•  High Growth Markets: In 2017, the constant currency 

In millions

Interest income

Other expense

Total

Foreign currency and hedging activity

2017

$ (7)

26

39

2016

$ (4)

(24)

22

$ 58

$ (6)

2015
$ (9)
(56)
17
$ (48)

operating income increase reflected higher franchise margin 

Foreign currency and hedging activity includes net gains or losses 

dollars due to sales-driven performance, the impact of 

on certain hedges that reduce the exposure to variability on 

refranchising and G&A savings. In addition, results benefited 

certain intercompany foreign currency cash flow streams. 

from lower depreciation expense in China and Hong Kong, 

and also includes the gain on the sale of the Company's 

businesses in China and Hong Kong as well as unrelated 

non-cash impairment charges. Excluding these items, 

operating income increased 17% (15% in constant 

currencies). In 2016, the increase was driven primarily by 

improved restaurant profitability in China.

• 

Foundational Markets and Corporate: In 2017, the constant 

currency operating income increase reflected the Company's 

refranchising initiatives, higher G&A costs at the Corporate 

level due to restaurant technology expenditures, and 

improved performance in Japan, which enabled the reversal 

of a valuation allowance on a deferred tax asset in Japan. 

Results also reflected the benefit from comparison to the prior 

year's strategic charges. In 2016, the increase reflected 

Japan's strong performance, partly offset by the net impact of 

the current and prior year impairment and restructuring 

charges from the Company's global refranchising and 

restructuring initiatives.

•  Operating margin 

Operating margin was 41.9% in 2017, 31.5% in 2016 and 

28.1% in 2015. Excluding the previously described current 

year gain and current and prior years strategic charges, 

operating margin was 38.8%, 32.8% and 28.8% for the years 

ended 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

In 2017, 2016 and 2015, the reported effective income tax rates 

were 39.4%, 31.7% and 30.9%, respectively.

The increase in the tax rate for 2017 reflects provisional 

amounts related to the deemed repatriation charge of 

approximately $1.2 billion, partly offset by a benefit of 

approximately $500 million resulting from the revaluation of 

deferred tax assets and liabilities to the lower enacted U.S. 

corporate tax rate of 21% under the Tax Act. Excluding the impact 

of the Tax Act, the effective income tax rate would have been 

31.6%.

Consolidated net deferred tax liabilities included tax assets, 

net of valuation allowance, of $1.5 billion in 2017 and $2.0 billion 
in 2016. Substantially all of the net tax assets are expected to be 

realized in the U.S. and other profitable markets.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

Recently issued accounting standards are included in Part II, 

Item 8, page 36 of this Form 10-K.

24    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

Cash Flows

The Company generates significant cash from its operations and 
has substantial credit availability and capacity to fund operating 
and discretionary spending such as capital expenditures, debt 
repayments, dividends and share repurchases. 

Cash provided by operations totaled $5.6 billion and free cash 

flow was $3.7 billion in 2017, while cash provided by operations 
totaled $6.1 billion and free cash flow was $4.2 billion in 2016. The 
Company's free cash flow conversion rate was 71% in 2017, and 
90% in 2016 (see reconciliation in Exhibit 12). In 2017, cash 
provided by operations decreased by $508 million or 8% 
compared with 2016, as improved operating results were more 
than offset by higher income tax payments in the U.S. and other 
working capital changes. In 2016, cash provided by operations 
decreased $480 million or 7% compared with 2015, primarily due 
to higher income tax payments primarily outside the U.S. and 
other working capital changes, partly offset by higher net income. 

Cash provided by investing activities totaled $562 million in 

2017, an increase of $1.5 billion compared with 2016. The 
increase is primarily due to proceeds associated with the sale of 
the Company's businesses in China and Hong Kong. Cash used 
for investing activities totaled $982 million in 2016, a decrease of 
$438 million compared with 2015. The decrease primarily reflected 
higher proceeds from sales of restaurant businesses.

Cash used for financing activities totaled $5.3 billion in 2017, 

a decrease of $6 billion compared with 2016, primarily due to 
lower treasury stock purchases, partly offset by a decrease in net 
borrowings. Cash used for financing activities totaled $11.3 billion 
in 2016, an increase of $12.0 billion compared with 2015, primarily 
due to a decrease in net borrowings and higher treasury stock 
purchases.

The Company’s cash and equivalents balance was $2.5 
billion and $1.2 billion at year end 2017 and 2016, respectively. In 
addition to cash and equivalents on hand and cash provided by 
operations, the Company can meet short-term funding needs 
through its continued access to commercial paper borrowings and 
line of credit agreements. 

RESTAURANT DEVELOPMENT AND CAPITAL EXPENDITURES
In 2017, the Company opened 929 restaurants and closed 587 
restaurants. In 2016, the Company opened 896 restaurants and 
closed 522 restaurants. The Company closes restaurants for a 
variety of reasons, such as existing sales and profit performance 
or loss of real estate tenure.

Systemwide restaurants at year end

U.S.
International Lead Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets &

Corporate
Total

2017
14,036
6,921
5,884

10,400
37,241

2016
14,155
6,851
5,552

10,341
36,899

2015
14,259
6,802
5,266

10,198
36,525

More than 90% of the restaurants at year-end 2017 were 
franchised, including 94% in the U.S., 87% in International Lead 
Markets, 81% in High Growth Markets and 98% in Foundational 
Markets.

Capital expenditures were relatively flat in 2017 as higher 
expenditures on restaurant reinvestment were offset by fewer 
restaurant openings that required the Company's capital. Under 
McDonald's developmental licensee and affiliate arrangements, 
licensees provide capital for the entire business and the Company 
generally has no capital invested. Capital expenditures in 2016 
were essentially flat with 2015, primarily due to higher 

reinvestment related to reimages, offset by fewer new restaurant 
openings. 

Capital expenditures invested in the U.S., International Lead 

markets and High Growth markets represented over 90% of the 
total in 2017, 2016 and 2015. 

Capital expenditures  

In millions
New restaurants
Existing restaurants
Other(1)

Total capital expenditures

Total assets

$

2017
537
1,236
81

$

2016
674
1,108
39

$

2015
892
842
80

$ 1,854
$33,804

$ 1,821
$31,024

$ 1,814
$37,939

(1)  Primarily corporate equipment and other office-related expenditures

New restaurant investments in all years were concentrated in 

markets with strong returns and/or opportunities for long-term 
growth. Average development costs vary widely by market 
depending on the types of restaurants built and the real estate and 
construction costs within each market. These costs, which include 
land, buildings and equipment, are managed through the use of 
optimally-sized restaurants, construction and design efficiencies, 
and leveraging best practices. Although the Company is not 
responsible for all costs for every restaurant opened, total 
development costs (consisting of land, buildings and equipment) 
for new traditional McDonald’s restaurants in the U.S. averaged 
approximately $3.9 million in 2017.

The Company owned 45% to 50% of the land and 70% to 
75% of the buildings for restaurants in its consolidated markets at 
year-end 2017 and 2016.

SHARE REPURCHASES AND DIVIDENDS
For 2017 through 2019, the Company expects to return about $24 
billion to shareholders through a combination of share 
repurchases and dividends, subject to business and market 
conditions. In 2017, the Company returned approximately $7.7 
billion to shareholders through a combination of shares 
repurchased and dividends paid.

Shares repurchased and dividends  

In millions, except per share data
Number of shares repurchased
Shares outstanding at year end
Dividends declared per share

2017
31.4
794
$ 3.83

2016
92.3
819
$ 3.61

2015
61.8
907
$ 3.44

Treasury stock purchases (in 
Shareholders' equity)
Dividends paid

Total returned to shareholders

$ 4,651
3,089
$ 7,740

$11,142
3,058
$14,200

$6,182
3,230
$9,412

In December 2015, the Company's Board of Directors 
approved a $15 billion share repurchase program with no 
specified expiration date ("2016 Program"). In July 2017, the 
Company's Board of Directors terminated the 2016 Program and 
replaced it with a new share repurchase program, effective July 
28, 2017, that authorizes the purchase of up to $15 billion of the 
Company's outstanding common stock with no specified expiration 
date. In 2017, approximately 31.4 million shares were 
repurchased for $4.7 billion, of which approximately 17.3 million 
shares or $2.7 billion were repurchased under the new program.

The Company has paid dividends on its common stock for 42 

consecutive years and has increased the dividend amount every 
year. The 2017 full-year dividend of $3.83 per share reflects the 
quarterly dividend paid for each of the first three quarters of $0.94 
per share, with an increase to $1.01 per share paid in the fourth 
quarter. This 7% increase in the quarterly dividend equates to a 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    25

 
 
$4.04 per share annual dividend and reflects the Company’s 
confidence in the ongoing strength and reliability of its cash flow. 
As in the past, future dividend amounts will be considered after 
reviewing profitability expectations and financing needs, and will 
be declared at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors.

Financial Position and Capital Resources

FINANCING AND MARKET RISK
The Company generally borrows on a long-term basis and is 
exposed to the impact of interest rate changes and foreign 
currency fluctuations. Debt obligations at December 31, 2017 
totaled $29.5 billion, compared with $26.0 billion at December 31, 
2016. The net increase in 2017 was primarily due to net long-term 
issuances of $3.1 billion.

TOTAL ASSETS AND RETURNS
Total assets increased $2.8 billion or 9% in 2017 primarily due to 
the impact of foreign exchange rates and an increase in cash and 
equivalents, partly offset by the impact of refranchising. 
Approximately 85% of total assets were in the U.S., International 
Lead markets and High Growth markets at year-end 2017. Net 
property and equipment increased $1.2 billion in 2017, primarily 
due to capital expenditures and the impact of foreign exchange 
rates, partly offset by depreciation and the impact of refranchising.  
Net property and equipment represented about 65% of total 
assets at year-end.

Operating income and month-end asset balances are used to 

compute return on average assets. For the years ended 2017, 
2016 and 2015, return on average assets was 29.0%, 23.0% and 
20.9%, respectively. 

In 2017, return on average assets increased primarily due to 

higher operating income, which included the gain on the sale of 
the Company's businesses in China and Hong Kong. In 2016, 
return on average assets increased due to higher operating 
income and lower average assets. Operating income does not 
include interest income; however, cash balances are included in 
average assets. The inclusion of cash balances in average assets 
reduced return on average assets by about three percentage 
points for all years presented.

26    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

Debt highlights(1)

Fixed-rate debt as a percent of total

debt(2,3)

Weighted-average annual interest

rate of total debt(3)

Foreign currency-denominated debt

as a percent of total debt(2)
Total debt as a percent of total

capitalization (total debt and total
Shareholders' equity)(2)

Cash provided by operations as a

percent of total debt(2)

2017

2016

2015

89%

82% 81%

3.3

42

3.5

3.8

34

29

112

109

19

23

77

27

(1)  All percentages are as of December 31, except for the weighted-average 

annual interest rate, which is for the year.

(2)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging 

adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they 
have no impact on the obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to 
the consolidated financial statements.

(3) 

Includes the effect of interest rate swaps.

Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s currently rate, with a stable 

outlook, the Company’s commercial paper A-2 and P-2, 
respectively; and its long-term debt BBB+ and Baa1, respectively. 
To access the debt capital markets, the Company relies on credit-
rating agencies to assign short-term and long-term credit ratings. 
Certain of the Company’s debt obligations contain cross-

acceleration provisions and restrictions on Company and 
subsidiary mortgages and the long-term debt of certain 
subsidiaries. There are no provisions in the Company’s debt 
obligations that would accelerate repayment of debt as a result of 
a change in credit ratings or a material adverse change in the 
Company’s business. Under existing authorization from the 
Company’s Board of Directors, at December 31, 2017, the 
Company had $15.0 billion of authority remaining to borrow funds, 
including through (i) public or private offering of debt securities; 
(ii) direct borrowing from banks or other financial institutions; and 
(iii) other forms of indebtedness. In addition to debt securities 
available through a medium-term notes program registered with 
the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and a 
Global Medium-Term Notes program, the Company has  
$2.5 billion available under a committed line of credit agreement 
as well as authority to issue commercial paper in the U.S. and 
global markets (see Debt Financing note to the consolidated 
financial statements). Debt maturing in 2018 is $1.8 billion of long-
term corporate debt. The Company plans to issue long-term debt 
to refinance this maturing debt. As of December 31, 2017, the 
Company's subsidiaries also had $268 million of borrowings 
outstanding, primarily under uncommitted foreign currency line of 
credit agreements.

The Company uses major capital markets, bank financings 

and derivatives to meet its financing requirements and reduce 
interest expense. The Company manages its debt portfolio in 
response to changes in interest rates and foreign currency rates 
by periodically retiring, redeeming and repurchasing debt, 
terminating swaps and using derivatives. The Company does not 
hold or issue derivatives for trading purposes. All swaps are over-
the-counter instruments.

In managing the impact of interest rate changes and foreign 

of these historical earnings have been reinvested in foreign 

The Company does not have significant exposure to any 

to a reduction of the U.S. corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% 

currency fluctuations, the Company uses interest rate swaps and 
finances in the currencies in which assets are denominated. The 
Company uses foreign currency debt and derivatives to hedge the 
foreign currency risk associated with certain royalties, 
intercompany financings and long-term investments in foreign 
subsidiaries and affiliates. This reduces the impact of fluctuating 
foreign currencies on cash flows and shareholders’ equity. Total 
foreign currency-denominated debt was $12.4 billion and 
$8.9 billion for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, 
respectively. In addition, where practical, the Company’s 
restaurants purchase goods and services in local currencies 
resulting in natural hedges. See the Summary of significant 
accounting policies note to the consolidated financial statements 
related to financial instruments and hedging activities for additional 
information regarding the accounting impact and use of 
derivatives.

individual counterparty and has master agreements that contain 
netting arrangements. Certain of these agreements also require 
each party to post collateral if credit ratings fall below, or 
aggregate exposures exceed, certain contractual limits. At 
December 31, 2017, the Company was required to post an 
immaterial amount of collateral due to negative fair value of certain 
derivative positions. The Company's counterparties were not 
required to post collateral on any derivative position, other than on 
hedges of certain of the Company’s supplemental benefit plan 
liabilities where the counterparties were required to post collateral 
on their liability positions.

The Company’s net asset exposure is diversified among a 

broad basket of currencies. The Company’s largest net asset 
exposures (defined as foreign currency assets less foreign 
currency liabilities) at year end were as follows:

Foreign currency net asset exposures

In millions of U.S. Dollars
British Pounds Sterling
Australian Dollars
Canadian Dollars
Japanese Yen
Russian Ruble

2017

$ 1,877

1,519

733

589

563

2016

$ 1,340

1,393

1,190

490

470

The Company prepared sensitivity analyses of its financial 

instruments to determine the impact of hypothetical changes in 
interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates on the 
Company’s results of operations, cash flows and the fair value of 
its financial instruments. The interest rate analysis assumed a one 
percentage point adverse change in interest rates on all financial 
instruments, but did not consider the effects of the reduced level of 
economic activity that could exist in such an environment. The 
foreign currency rate analysis assumed that each foreign currency 
rate would change by 10% in the same direction relative to the 
U.S. Dollar on all financial instruments; however, the analysis did 
not include the potential impact on revenues, local currency prices 
or the effect of fluctuating currencies on the Company’s 
anticipated foreign currency royalties and other payments received 
from the markets. Based on the results of these analyses of the 
Company’s financial instruments, neither a one percentage point 
adverse change in interest rates from 2017 levels nor a 10% 
adverse change in foreign currency rates from 2017 levels would 
materially affect the Company’s results of operations, cash flows 
or the fair value of its financial instruments.

LIQUIDITY
The Company has significant operations outside the U.S. where 
we earn about 60% of our operating income. A significant portion 

jurisdictions where the Company has made, and will continue to 

make, substantial investments to support the ongoing 

development and growth of our international operations.

The Company's cash and equivalents held by our foreign 

subsidiaries totaled approximately $1.5 billion as of December 31, 

2017. 

Consistent with prior years, we expect existing domestic cash 

and equivalents, domestic cash flows from operations, annual 

repatriation of a portion of the current period's foreign earnings, 

and the issuance of domestic debt to continue to be sufficient to 

fund our domestic operating, investing, and financing activities. 

We also continue to expect existing foreign cash and equivalents 

and foreign cash flows from operations to be sufficient to fund our 

foreign operating, investing, and financing activities. 

As a result of the Tax Act, the Company expects an 

incremental cash flow benefit of $400 to $500 million annually due 

partly offset by a $1.2 billion 2017 tax cost on deemed repatriation 

of foreign earnings that will be paid over the next 8 years.

In the future, should we require more capital to fund activities 

in the U.S. than is generated by our domestic operations and is 

available through the issuance of domestic debt, we could elect to 

repatriate a greater portion of future periods' earnings from foreign 

jurisdictions. 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMITMENTS

The Company has long-term contractual obligations primarily in 

the form of lease obligations (related to both Company-operated 

and franchised restaurants) and debt obligations. In addition, the 

Company has long-term revenue and cash flow streams that 

relate to its franchise arrangements. Cash provided by operations 

(including cash provided by these franchise arrangements) along 

with the Company’s borrowing capacity and other sources of cash 

will be used to satisfy the obligations. The following table 

summarizes the Company’s contractual obligations and their 

aggregate maturities as well as future minimum rent payments 

due to the Company under existing franchise arrangements as of 

December 31, 2017. See discussions of cash flows and financial 

position and capital resources as well as the Notes to the 

consolidated financial statements for further details.

Contractual cash outflows

Contractual cash inflows

Debt

obligations (1)

Minimum rent under

franchise arrangements

In millions

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Operating

leases

$ 1,152

1,087

997

904

805

$

2,025

2,121

2,432

1,717

2,311

Thereafter

6,912

19,057

Total

$11,857

$ 29,663

$

$

2,893

2,813

2,707

2,577

2,441

20,330

33,761

(1)  The maturities include reclassifications of short-term obligations to long-

term obligations of $2.0 billion, as they are supported by a long-term line 

of credit agreement expiring in December 2019. Debt obligations do not 

include the impact of noncash fair value hedging adjustments, deferred 

debt costs, and accrued interest.

In the U.S., the Company maintains certain supplemental 

benefit plans that allow participants to (i) make tax-deferred 

contributions and (ii) receive Company-provided allocations that 

cannot be made under the qualified benefit plans because of 

Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") limitations. At December 31, 

2017, total liabilities for the supplemental plans were $484 million.

At December 31, 2017, total liabilities for gross unrecognized 

tax benefits were $1.2 billion.  In addition, a liability of 

approximately $1.2 billion was recorded in 2017 resulting from the 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    27

 
 
$4.04 per share annual dividend and reflects the Company’s 

FINANCING AND MARKET RISK

confidence in the ongoing strength and reliability of its cash flow. 

As in the past, future dividend amounts will be considered after 

reviewing profitability expectations and financing needs, and will 

be declared at the discretion of the Company’s Board of Directors.

Financial Position and Capital Resources

TOTAL ASSETS AND RETURNS

Total assets increased $2.8 billion or 9% in 2017 primarily due to 

the impact of foreign exchange rates and an increase in cash and 

equivalents, partly offset by the impact of refranchising. 

Approximately 85% of total assets were in the U.S., International 

Lead markets and High Growth markets at year-end 2017. Net 

property and equipment increased $1.2 billion in 2017, primarily 

due to capital expenditures and the impact of foreign exchange 

rates, partly offset by depreciation and the impact of refranchising.  

Net property and equipment represented about 65% of total 

assets at year-end.

Operating income and month-end asset balances are used to 

compute return on average assets. For the years ended 2017, 

2016 and 2015, return on average assets was 29.0%, 23.0% and 

20.9%, respectively. 

In 2017, return on average assets increased primarily due to 

higher operating income, which included the gain on the sale of 

the Company's businesses in China and Hong Kong. In 2016, 

return on average assets increased due to higher operating 

income and lower average assets. Operating income does not 

include interest income; however, cash balances are included in 

average assets. The inclusion of cash balances in average assets 

reduced return on average assets by about three percentage 

points for all years presented.

The Company generally borrows on a long-term basis and is 

exposed to the impact of interest rate changes and foreign 

currency fluctuations. Debt obligations at December 31, 2017 

totaled $29.5 billion, compared with $26.0 billion at December 31, 
2016. The net increase in 2017 was primarily due to net long-term 

issuances of $3.1 billion.

Debt highlights(1)

Fixed-rate debt as a percent of total

debt(2,3)

Weighted-average annual interest

rate of total debt(3)

Foreign currency-denominated debt

as a percent of total debt(2)

Total debt as a percent of total

capitalization (total debt and total

Shareholders' equity)(2)

Cash provided by operations as a

percent of total debt(2)

2017

2016

2015

89%

82% 81%

3.3

42

3.5

3.8

34

29

112

109

19

23

77

27

(1)  All percentages are as of December 31, except for the weighted-average 

annual interest rate, which is for the year.

(2)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging 

adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they 

have no impact on the obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to 

the consolidated financial statements.

(3) 

Includes the effect of interest rate swaps.

Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s currently rate, with a stable 

outlook, the Company’s commercial paper A-2 and P-2, 

respectively; and its long-term debt BBB+ and Baa1, respectively. 
To access the debt capital markets, the Company relies on credit-
rating agencies to assign short-term and long-term credit ratings. 

Certain of the Company’s debt obligations contain cross-

acceleration provisions and restrictions on Company and 

subsidiary mortgages and the long-term debt of certain 

subsidiaries. There are no provisions in the Company’s debt 

obligations that would accelerate repayment of debt as a result of 

a change in credit ratings or a material adverse change in the 

Company’s business. Under existing authorization from the 

Company’s Board of Directors, at December 31, 2017, the 

Company had $15.0 billion of authority remaining to borrow funds, 

including through (i) public or private offering of debt securities; 

(ii) direct borrowing from banks or other financial institutions; and 

(iii) other forms of indebtedness. In addition to debt securities 

available through a medium-term notes program registered with 

the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and a 

Global Medium-Term Notes program, the Company has  

$2.5 billion available under a committed line of credit agreement 

as well as authority to issue commercial paper in the U.S. and 

global markets (see Debt Financing note to the consolidated 

financial statements). Debt maturing in 2018 is $1.8 billion of long-
term corporate debt. The Company plans to issue long-term debt 

to refinance this maturing debt. As of December 31, 2017, the 

Company's subsidiaries also had $268 million of borrowings 

outstanding, primarily under uncommitted foreign currency line of 

credit agreements.

The Company uses major capital markets, bank financings 

and derivatives to meet its financing requirements and reduce 

interest expense. The Company manages its debt portfolio in 

response to changes in interest rates and foreign currency rates 

by periodically retiring, redeeming and repurchasing debt, 

terminating swaps and using derivatives. The Company does not 
hold or issue derivatives for trading purposes. All swaps are over-

the-counter instruments.

In managing the impact of interest rate changes and foreign 
currency fluctuations, the Company uses interest rate swaps and 
finances in the currencies in which assets are denominated. The 
Company uses foreign currency debt and derivatives to hedge the 
foreign currency risk associated with certain royalties, 
intercompany financings and long-term investments in foreign 
subsidiaries and affiliates. This reduces the impact of fluctuating 
foreign currencies on cash flows and shareholders’ equity. Total 
foreign currency-denominated debt was $12.4 billion and 
$8.9 billion for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, 
respectively. In addition, where practical, the Company’s 
restaurants purchase goods and services in local currencies 
resulting in natural hedges. See the Summary of significant 
accounting policies note to the consolidated financial statements 
related to financial instruments and hedging activities for additional 
information regarding the accounting impact and use of 
derivatives.

The Company does not have significant exposure to any 
individual counterparty and has master agreements that contain 
netting arrangements. Certain of these agreements also require 
each party to post collateral if credit ratings fall below, or 
aggregate exposures exceed, certain contractual limits. At 
December 31, 2017, the Company was required to post an 
immaterial amount of collateral due to negative fair value of certain 
derivative positions. The Company's counterparties were not 
required to post collateral on any derivative position, other than on 
hedges of certain of the Company’s supplemental benefit plan 
liabilities where the counterparties were required to post collateral 
on their liability positions.

The Company’s net asset exposure is diversified among a 

broad basket of currencies. The Company’s largest net asset 
exposures (defined as foreign currency assets less foreign 
currency liabilities) at year end were as follows:

Foreign currency net asset exposures

In millions of U.S. Dollars
British Pounds Sterling
Australian Dollars
Canadian Dollars
Japanese Yen
Russian Ruble

2017
$ 1,877
1,519
733
589
563

2016
$ 1,340
1,393
1,190
490
470

The Company prepared sensitivity analyses of its financial 
instruments to determine the impact of hypothetical changes in 
interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates on the 
Company’s results of operations, cash flows and the fair value of 
its financial instruments. The interest rate analysis assumed a one 
percentage point adverse change in interest rates on all financial 
instruments, but did not consider the effects of the reduced level of 
economic activity that could exist in such an environment. The 
foreign currency rate analysis assumed that each foreign currency 
rate would change by 10% in the same direction relative to the 
U.S. Dollar on all financial instruments; however, the analysis did 
not include the potential impact on revenues, local currency prices 
or the effect of fluctuating currencies on the Company’s 
anticipated foreign currency royalties and other payments received 
from the markets. Based on the results of these analyses of the 
Company’s financial instruments, neither a one percentage point 
adverse change in interest rates from 2017 levels nor a 10% 
adverse change in foreign currency rates from 2017 levels would 
materially affect the Company’s results of operations, cash flows 
or the fair value of its financial instruments.

LIQUIDITY
The Company has significant operations outside the U.S. where 
we earn about 60% of our operating income. A significant portion 

of these historical earnings have been reinvested in foreign 
jurisdictions where the Company has made, and will continue to 
make, substantial investments to support the ongoing 
development and growth of our international operations.

The Company's cash and equivalents held by our foreign 
subsidiaries totaled approximately $1.5 billion as of December 31, 
2017. 

Consistent with prior years, we expect existing domestic cash 

and equivalents, domestic cash flows from operations, annual 
repatriation of a portion of the current period's foreign earnings, 
and the issuance of domestic debt to continue to be sufficient to 
fund our domestic operating, investing, and financing activities. 
We also continue to expect existing foreign cash and equivalents 
and foreign cash flows from operations to be sufficient to fund our 
foreign operating, investing, and financing activities. 

As a result of the Tax Act, the Company expects an 

incremental cash flow benefit of $400 to $500 million annually due 
to a reduction of the U.S. corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% 
partly offset by a $1.2 billion 2017 tax cost on deemed repatriation 
of foreign earnings that will be paid over the next 8 years.

In the future, should we require more capital to fund activities 

in the U.S. than is generated by our domestic operations and is 
available through the issuance of domestic debt, we could elect to 
repatriate a greater portion of future periods' earnings from foreign 
jurisdictions. 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS AND COMMITMENTS
The Company has long-term contractual obligations primarily in 
the form of lease obligations (related to both Company-operated 
and franchised restaurants) and debt obligations. In addition, the 
Company has long-term revenue and cash flow streams that 
relate to its franchise arrangements. Cash provided by operations 
(including cash provided by these franchise arrangements) along 
with the Company’s borrowing capacity and other sources of cash 
will be used to satisfy the obligations. The following table 
summarizes the Company’s contractual obligations and their 
aggregate maturities as well as future minimum rent payments 
due to the Company under existing franchise arrangements as of 
December 31, 2017. See discussions of cash flows and financial 
position and capital resources as well as the Notes to the 
consolidated financial statements for further details.

Contractual cash outflows

Contractual cash inflows

Operating
leases

Debt
obligations (1)

Minimum rent under
franchise arrangements

$ 1,152
1,087
997
904
805
6,912
$11,857

$

2,025
2,121
2,432
1,717
2,311
19,057
$ 29,663

$

$

2,893
2,813
2,707
2,577
2,441
20,330
33,761

In millions

2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter

Total

(1)  The maturities include reclassifications of short-term obligations to long-

term obligations of $2.0 billion, as they are supported by a long-term line 
of credit agreement expiring in December 2019. Debt obligations do not 
include the impact of noncash fair value hedging adjustments, deferred 
debt costs, and accrued interest.

In the U.S., the Company maintains certain supplemental 

benefit plans that allow participants to (i) make tax-deferred 
contributions and (ii) receive Company-provided allocations that 
cannot be made under the qualified benefit plans because of 
Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") limitations. At December 31, 
2017, total liabilities for the supplemental plans were $484 million.
At December 31, 2017, total liabilities for gross unrecognized 

tax benefits were $1.2 billion.  In addition, a liability of 
approximately $1.2 billion was recorded in 2017 resulting from the 

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    27

26    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

 
 
Tax Act, which imposed a deemed repatriation tax on the 
Company's undistributed foreign earnings. This tax liability will be 
paid over eight years beginning in 2018.  

There are certain purchase commitments that are not 

recognized in the consolidated financial statements and are 
primarily related to construction, inventory, energy, marketing and 
other service related arrangements that occur in the normal 
course of business.  Such commitments are generally shorter term 
in nature, will be funded from operating cash flows, and are not 
significant to the Company’s overall financial position.

Other Matters

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
Results of Operations is based upon the Company’s consolidated 
financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance 
with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. The 
preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to 
make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of 
assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses as well as related 
disclosures. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its 
estimates and judgments based on historical experience and 
various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the 
circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The Company reviews its financial reporting and disclosure 

practices and accounting policies quarterly to ensure that they 
provide accurate and transparent information relative to the 
current economic and business environment. The Company 
believes that of its significant accounting policies, the following 
involve a higher degree of judgment and/or complexity:

Property and equipment

• 
Property and equipment are depreciated or amortized on a 
straight-line basis over their useful lives based on management’s 
estimates of the period over which the assets will generate 
revenue (not to exceed lease term plus options for leased 
property). The useful lives are estimated based on historical 
experience with similar assets, taking into account anticipated 
technological or other changes. The Company periodically reviews 
these lives relative to physical factors, economic factors and 
industry trends. If there are changes in the planned use of 
property and equipment, or if technological changes occur more 
rapidly than anticipated, the useful lives assigned to these assets 
may need to be shortened, resulting in the accelerated recognition 
of depreciation and amortization expense or write-offs in future 
periods.

•  Businesses Held for Sale
Assets and liabilities of businesses held for sale on the 
consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2016 primarily 
consisted of balances related to businesses in China and Hong 
Kong.  In December 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors 
approved an agreement for the Company to sell its existing 
businesses in China and Hong Kong to a licensee.  Based on this 
approval, the Company concluded that these markets were “held 
for sale” as of December 31, 2016 in accordance with the 
requirements of ASC 360 “Property, Plant and Equipment”.  The 
Company completed the sale of these businesses on July 31, 
2017.

Share-based compensation

• 
The Company has a share-based compensation plan which 
authorizes the granting of various equity-based incentives 
including stock options and restricted stock units ("RSUs") to 
employees and nonemployee directors. The expense for these 
equity-based incentives is based on their fair value at date of grant 

28    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

and generally amortized over their vesting period. The Company 
estimates forfeitures when determining the amount of 
compensation costs to be recognized in each period.

The fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on 
the date of grant using a closed-form pricing model. The pricing 
model requires assumptions, which impact the assumed fair value, 
including the expected life of the stock option, the risk-free interest 
rate, expected volatility of the Company’s stock over the expected 
life and the expected dividend yield. The Company uses historical 
data to determine these assumptions and if these assumptions 
change significantly for future grants, share-based compensation 
expense will fluctuate in future years. The fair value of each RSU 
granted is equal to the market price of the Company’s stock at 
date of grant less the present value of expected dividends over the 
vesting period. For performance-based RSUs granted beginning in 
2016, the Company includes a relative Total Shareholder Return 
("TSR") modifier to determine the number of shares earned at the 
end of the performance period.  The fair value of performance-
based RSUs that include the TSR modifier is determined using a 
Monte Carlo valuation model.

Long-lived assets impairment review

• 
Long-lived assets (including goodwill) are reviewed for impairment 
annually in the fourth quarter and whenever events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may 
not be recoverable. In assessing the recoverability of the 
Company’s long-lived assets, the Company considers changes in 
economic conditions and makes assumptions regarding estimated 
future cash flows and other factors. Estimates of future cash flows 
are highly subjective judgments based on the Company’s 
experience and knowledge of its operations. These estimates can 
be significantly impacted by many factors including changes in 
global and local business and economic conditions, operating 
costs, inflation, competition, and consumer and demographic 
trends. A key assumption impacting estimated future cash flows is 
the estimated change in comparable sales. If the Company’s 
estimates or underlying assumptions change in the future, the 
Company may be required to record impairment charges. Based 
on the annual goodwill impairment test, conducted in the fourth 
quarter, approximately 5-10% of goodwill may be at risk of future 
impairment as the fair values of certain reporting units were not 
substantially in excess of their carrying amounts. 

Litigation accruals

• 
In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to 
proceedings, lawsuits and other claims primarily related to 
competitors, customers, employees, franchisees, government 
agencies, intellectual property, shareholders and suppliers. The 
Company is required to assess the likelihood of any adverse 
judgments or outcomes to these matters as well as potential 
ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of 
accrual required, if any, for these contingencies is made after
careful analysis of each matter. The required accrual may change 
in the future due to new developments in each matter or changes 
in approach such as a change in settlement strategy in dealing 
with these matters. The Company does not believe that any such 
matter currently being reviewed will have a material adverse effect 
on its financial condition or results of operations.

Income taxes

• 
The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce its deferred 
tax assets if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the 
deferred assets will not be realized. While the Company has 
considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and 
feasible tax strategies, including the sale of appreciated assets, in 
assessing the need for the valuation allowance, if these estimates 
and assumptions change in the future, the Company may be 
required to adjust its valuation allowance. This could result in a 

charge to, or an increase in, income in the period such 
determination is made.

Provisional amounts 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities: The Company remeasured 

The Company operates within multiple taxing jurisdictions and 

certain U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates 

is subject to audit in these jurisdictions. The Company records 
accruals for the estimated outcomes of these audits, and the 
accruals may change in the future due to new developments in 
each matter. The most significant new developments in 2017 and 
2016 are described below.

at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is 

generally 21%. However, the Company is still analyzing certain 

aspects of the Tax Act and refining the calculations, which could 

potentially affect the measurement of these balances or potentially 

give rise to new deferred tax amounts. A provisional amount was 

In 2017 and 2016, the Company increased the balance of 

recorded related to the remeasurement of the deferred tax 

unrecognized tax benefits related to tax positions taken in prior 
years by $144 million and $150 million, respectively. These 
increases primarily resulted from the evaluation of new information 
during the progression of tax audits in multiple foreign tax 
jurisdictions. As a result of this new information, the Company 
changed its judgment on the measurement of the related 
unrecognized tax benefits and recorded an increase in the gross 
unrecognized tax benefits. See the Income Taxes footnote in the 
Consolidated Financial Statements for the related tax 
reconciliations. 

balance, resulting in a provision for income taxes benefit of 

approximately $500 million. 

Foreign tax effects: The one-time transition tax is based on 

the total post-1986 earnings and profits ("E&P") that the Company 

had previously deferred from U.S. income taxes. A provisional 

amount was recorded for the one-time transition tax liability, 

resulting in a provision for income taxes cost of approximately 

$1.2 billion. The Company has not yet completed the calculation of 

the total post-1986 foreign E&P. Further, the transition tax is based 

in part on the amount of those earnings held in cash and other 

In 2015, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) issued a 

specified assets. This amount may change when the calculation of 

Revenue Agent Report (“RAR”) that included certain disagreed 
transfer pricing adjustments related to the Company’s U.S. 
Federal income tax returns for 2009 and 2010. Also in 2015, the 
Company filed a protest with the IRS Appeals Office related to 
these disagreed transfer pricing matters. During 2017, the 
Company received a response to its protest, and, as of December 
31, 2017, is awaiting scheduling of an opening conference with 
IRS Appeals. The Company expects resolution on these issues in 
either 2018 or 2019.

post-1986 foreign E&P and the amounts held in cash or other 

specified assets are finalized. Additionally, the provisional amount 

includes an estimate of foreign withholding taxes related to the 

E&P subject to the transition tax. A provisional deferred tax liability 

has been recorded for temporary differences related to 

investments in certain foreign subsidiaries and corporate joint 

ventures. However, the Company is still evaluating how the Tax 

Act will affect the Company’s accounting position related to the 

indefinite reinvestment of unremitted foreign earnings. During the 

In 2017, the IRS completed its examination of the Company’s 

measurement period, the Company may reflect adjustments to this 

U.S. Federal income tax returns for 2011 and 2012. Although at 
December 31, 2017 the IRS had not yet issued its RAR for these 
years, when issued it is expected to result in the same disagreed 
transfer pricing matters as the 2009 and 2010 RAR. Consequently, 
it is expected that the transfer pricing matters for 2011 and 2012 
will be addressed along with the 2009 and 2010 matters as part of 
the 2009-2010 appeal, such that resolution is expected in either 
2018 or 2019.

In December 2015, the European Commission opened a 

formal investigation directly with the Luxembourg government to 
examine whether decisions by the tax authorities in Luxembourg 
with regard to the corporate income tax paid by certain of our 
subsidiaries comply with European Union rules on state aid. If this 
matter is adversely resolved, Luxembourg may be required to 
assess, and the Company may be required to pay, additional 
amounts with respect to current and prior periods and our taxes in 
the future could increase. As of December 31, 2017, no decision 
has been published with respect to this investigation.

While the Company cannot predict the ultimate resolution of 

the aforementioned tax matters, we believe that the liabilities 
recorded are appropriate and adequate as determined in 
accordance with Topic 740 - Income Taxes of the Accounting 
Standards Codification (“ASC”). 

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (“Tax Act”) was enacted 

on December 22, 2017. The Tax Act reduces the U.S. federal 
corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, requires companies to pay a 
one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries 
that were previously tax deferred and creates new taxes on certain 
foreign sourced earnings. At December 31, 2017, the Company 
has not completed the accounting for the tax effects of enactment 
of the Tax Act. However, as described below, the Company has 
made a reasonable estimate of the effects on the existing deferred 
tax balances and the one-time transition tax. For these items, a 
provisional net tax cost of approximately $700 million is 
recognized and is included as a component of provision for 
income taxes from continuing operations. 

provisional amount upon obtaining, preparing, and analyzing the 

necessary information to complete the accounting under ASC 740.

EFFECTS OF CHANGING PRICES—INFLATION

The Company has demonstrated an ability to manage inflationary 

cost increases effectively. This ability is because of rapid inventory 

turnover, the ability to adjust menu prices, cost controls and 

substantial property holdings, many of which are at fixed costs and 

partly financed by debt made less expensive by inflation.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    29

 
Tax Act, which imposed a deemed repatriation tax on the 

and generally amortized over their vesting period. The Company 

Company's undistributed foreign earnings. This tax liability will be 

estimates forfeitures when determining the amount of 

paid over eight years beginning in 2018.  

compensation costs to be recognized in each period.

There are certain purchase commitments that are not 

The fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on 

recognized in the consolidated financial statements and are 

the date of grant using a closed-form pricing model. The pricing 

primarily related to construction, inventory, energy, marketing and 

other service related arrangements that occur in the normal 

course of business.  Such commitments are generally shorter term 

in nature, will be funded from operating cash flows, and are not 

significant to the Company’s overall financial position.

Other Matters

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 

Results of Operations is based upon the Company’s consolidated 

financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance 

with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. The 

preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to 

make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of 

assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses as well as related 

disclosures. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its 

estimates and judgments based on historical experience and 

various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the 

circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The Company reviews its financial reporting and disclosure 

practices and accounting policies quarterly to ensure that they 

provide accurate and transparent information relative to the 

current economic and business environment. The Company 

believes that of its significant accounting policies, the following 

involve a higher degree of judgment and/or complexity:

• 

Property and equipment

Property and equipment are depreciated or amortized on a 

straight-line basis over their useful lives based on management’s 

estimates of the period over which the assets will generate 

revenue (not to exceed lease term plus options for leased 

property). The useful lives are estimated based on historical 

experience with similar assets, taking into account anticipated 

technological or other changes. The Company periodically reviews 

these lives relative to physical factors, economic factors and 

industry trends. If there are changes in the planned use of 

property and equipment, or if technological changes occur more 

rapidly than anticipated, the useful lives assigned to these assets 

may need to be shortened, resulting in the accelerated recognition 

of depreciation and amortization expense or write-offs in future 

periods.

•  Businesses Held for Sale

Assets and liabilities of businesses held for sale on the 

consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2016 primarily 

consisted of balances related to businesses in China and Hong 

Kong.  In December 2016, the Company’s Board of Directors 

approved an agreement for the Company to sell its existing 

businesses in China and Hong Kong to a licensee.  Based on this 

approval, the Company concluded that these markets were “held 

for sale” as of December 31, 2016 in accordance with the 

requirements of ASC 360 “Property, Plant and Equipment”.  The 

Company completed the sale of these businesses on July 31, 

2017.

• 

Share-based compensation

The Company has a share-based compensation plan which 

authorizes the granting of various equity-based incentives 

including stock options and restricted stock units ("RSUs") to 

employees and nonemployee directors. The expense for these 

equity-based incentives is based on their fair value at date of grant 

28    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

model requires assumptions, which impact the assumed fair value, 
including the expected life of the stock option, the risk-free interest 
rate, expected volatility of the Company’s stock over the expected 
life and the expected dividend yield. The Company uses historical 

data to determine these assumptions and if these assumptions 

change significantly for future grants, share-based compensation 
expense will fluctuate in future years. The fair value of each RSU 

granted is equal to the market price of the Company’s stock at 

date of grant less the present value of expected dividends over the 
vesting period. For performance-based RSUs granted beginning in 

2016, the Company includes a relative Total Shareholder Return 

("TSR") modifier to determine the number of shares earned at the 

end of the performance period.  The fair value of performance-

based RSUs that include the TSR modifier is determined using a 

Monte Carlo valuation model.

• 

Long-lived assets impairment review

Long-lived assets (including goodwill) are reviewed for impairment 
annually in the fourth quarter and whenever events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may 

not be recoverable. In assessing the recoverability of the 

Company’s long-lived assets, the Company considers changes in 
economic conditions and makes assumptions regarding estimated 
future cash flows and other factors. Estimates of future cash flows 

are highly subjective judgments based on the Company’s 

experience and knowledge of its operations. These estimates can 

be significantly impacted by many factors including changes in 

global and local business and economic conditions, operating 

costs, inflation, competition, and consumer and demographic 

trends. A key assumption impacting estimated future cash flows is 

the estimated change in comparable sales. If the Company’s 

estimates or underlying assumptions change in the future, the 

Company may be required to record impairment charges. Based 

on the annual goodwill impairment test, conducted in the fourth 

quarter, approximately 5-10% of goodwill may be at risk of future 

impairment as the fair values of certain reporting units were not 

substantially in excess of their carrying amounts. 

• 

Litigation accruals

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to 

proceedings, lawsuits and other claims primarily related to 

competitors, customers, employees, franchisees, government 

agencies, intellectual property, shareholders and suppliers. The 

Company is required to assess the likelihood of any adverse 

judgments or outcomes to these matters as well as potential 

ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of 

accrual required, if any, for these contingencies is made after

careful analysis of each matter. The required accrual may change 
in the future due to new developments in each matter or changes 

in approach such as a change in settlement strategy in dealing 

with these matters. The Company does not believe that any such 
matter currently being reviewed will have a material adverse effect 

on its financial condition or results of operations.

• 

Income taxes

The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce its deferred 
tax assets if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the 

deferred assets will not be realized. While the Company has 

considered future taxable income and ongoing prudent and 

feasible tax strategies, including the sale of appreciated assets, in 
assessing the need for the valuation allowance, if these estimates 

and assumptions change in the future, the Company may be 

required to adjust its valuation allowance. This could result in a 

charge to, or an increase in, income in the period such 
determination is made.

The Company operates within multiple taxing jurisdictions and 

is subject to audit in these jurisdictions. The Company records 
accruals for the estimated outcomes of these audits, and the 
accruals may change in the future due to new developments in 
each matter. The most significant new developments in 2017 and 
2016 are described below.

In 2017 and 2016, the Company increased the balance of 
unrecognized tax benefits related to tax positions taken in prior 
years by $144 million and $150 million, respectively. These 
increases primarily resulted from the evaluation of new information 
during the progression of tax audits in multiple foreign tax 
jurisdictions. As a result of this new information, the Company 
changed its judgment on the measurement of the related 
unrecognized tax benefits and recorded an increase in the gross 
unrecognized tax benefits. See the Income Taxes footnote in the 
Consolidated Financial Statements for the related tax 
reconciliations. 

In 2015, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) issued a 
Revenue Agent Report (“RAR”) that included certain disagreed 
transfer pricing adjustments related to the Company’s U.S. 
Federal income tax returns for 2009 and 2010. Also in 2015, the 
Company filed a protest with the IRS Appeals Office related to 
these disagreed transfer pricing matters. During 2017, the 
Company received a response to its protest, and, as of December 
31, 2017, is awaiting scheduling of an opening conference with 
IRS Appeals. The Company expects resolution on these issues in 
either 2018 or 2019.

In 2017, the IRS completed its examination of the Company’s 

U.S. Federal income tax returns for 2011 and 2012. Although at 
December 31, 2017 the IRS had not yet issued its RAR for these 
years, when issued it is expected to result in the same disagreed 
transfer pricing matters as the 2009 and 2010 RAR. Consequently, 
it is expected that the transfer pricing matters for 2011 and 2012 
will be addressed along with the 2009 and 2010 matters as part of 
the 2009-2010 appeal, such that resolution is expected in either 
2018 or 2019.

In December 2015, the European Commission opened a 
formal investigation directly with the Luxembourg government to 
examine whether decisions by the tax authorities in Luxembourg 
with regard to the corporate income tax paid by certain of our 
subsidiaries comply with European Union rules on state aid. If this 
matter is adversely resolved, Luxembourg may be required to 
assess, and the Company may be required to pay, additional 
amounts with respect to current and prior periods and our taxes in 
the future could increase. As of December 31, 2017, no decision 
has been published with respect to this investigation.

While the Company cannot predict the ultimate resolution of 

the aforementioned tax matters, we believe that the liabilities 
recorded are appropriate and adequate as determined in 
accordance with Topic 740 - Income Taxes of the Accounting 
Standards Codification (“ASC”). 

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (“Tax Act”) was enacted 

on December 22, 2017. The Tax Act reduces the U.S. federal 
corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, requires companies to pay a 
one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign subsidiaries 
that were previously tax deferred and creates new taxes on certain 
foreign sourced earnings. At December 31, 2017, the Company 
has not completed the accounting for the tax effects of enactment 
of the Tax Act. However, as described below, the Company has 
made a reasonable estimate of the effects on the existing deferred 
tax balances and the one-time transition tax. For these items, a 
provisional net tax cost of approximately $700 million is 
recognized and is included as a component of provision for 
income taxes from continuing operations. 

Provisional amounts 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities: The Company remeasured 

certain U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates 
at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is 
generally 21%. However, the Company is still analyzing certain 
aspects of the Tax Act and refining the calculations, which could 
potentially affect the measurement of these balances or potentially 
give rise to new deferred tax amounts. A provisional amount was 
recorded related to the remeasurement of the deferred tax 
balance, resulting in a provision for income taxes benefit of 
approximately $500 million. 

Foreign tax effects: The one-time transition tax is based on 
the total post-1986 earnings and profits ("E&P") that the Company 
had previously deferred from U.S. income taxes. A provisional 
amount was recorded for the one-time transition tax liability, 
resulting in a provision for income taxes cost of approximately 
$1.2 billion. The Company has not yet completed the calculation of 
the total post-1986 foreign E&P. Further, the transition tax is based 
in part on the amount of those earnings held in cash and other 
specified assets. This amount may change when the calculation of 
post-1986 foreign E&P and the amounts held in cash or other 
specified assets are finalized. Additionally, the provisional amount 
includes an estimate of foreign withholding taxes related to the 
E&P subject to the transition tax. A provisional deferred tax liability 
has been recorded for temporary differences related to 
investments in certain foreign subsidiaries and corporate joint 
ventures. However, the Company is still evaluating how the Tax 
Act will affect the Company’s accounting position related to the 
indefinite reinvestment of unremitted foreign earnings. During the 
measurement period, the Company may reflect adjustments to this 
provisional amount upon obtaining, preparing, and analyzing the 
necessary information to complete the accounting under ASC 740.

EFFECTS OF CHANGING PRICES—INFLATION
The Company has demonstrated an ability to manage inflationary 
cost increases effectively. This ability is because of rapid inventory 
turnover, the ability to adjust menu prices, cost controls and 
substantial property holdings, many of which are at fixed costs and 
partly financed by debt made less expensive by inflation.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    29

 
RISK FACTORS AND CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This report includes forward-looking statements about our plans and future performance, including those under Outlook for 2018. Refer to 
the cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements in Part 1, Item 1A, page 3, of this Form 10-K.

Consolidated Statement of Income 

ITEM 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk are included in Part II, Item 7, page 26 of the Form 10-K.

ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Index to consolidated financial statements

Page reference

Consolidated statement of income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017
Consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2017 and 2016
Consolidated statement of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017
Consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017
Notes to consolidated financial statements
Quarterly results (unaudited)
Management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting
Report of independent registered public accounting firm
Report of independent registered public accounting firm on internal control over financial reporting

31
32
33
34
35
36
50
51
52
53

In millions, except per share data
REVENUES
Sales by Company-operated restaurants
Revenues from franchised restaurants

Total revenues

OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES
Company-operated restaurant expenses

Food & paper

Payroll & employee benefits

Occupancy & other operating expenses

Franchised restaurants-occupancy expenses
Selling, general & administrative expenses
Other operating (income) expense, net

Total operating costs and expenses

Operating income
Interest expense-net of capitalized interest of $5.3, $7.1 and $9.4
Nonoperating (income) expense, net
Income before provision for income taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Earnings per common share–basic
Earnings per common share–diluted
Dividends declared per common share
Weighted-average shares outstanding–basic
Weighted-average shares outstanding–diluted

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

$ 12,718.9

$ 15,295.0

$ 16,488.3

10,101.5

22,820.4

9,326.9

24,621.9

8,924.7

25,413.0

4,033.5

3,528.5

2,847.6

1,790.0

2,231.3

(1,163.2)

13,267.7

9,552.7

921.3

57.9

8,573.5

3,381.2

4,896.9

4,134.2

3,667.7

1,718.4

2,384.5

75.7

16,877.4

7,744.5

884.8

(6.3)

6,866.0

2,179.5

5,552.2

4,400.0

4,024.7

1,646.9

2,434.3

209.4

18,267.5

7,145.5

638.3

(48.5)

6,555.7

2,026.4

$ 5,192.3

$ 4,686.5

$ 4,529.3

$

$

$

$

$

$

6.43

6.37

3.83

807.4

815.5

$

$

$

5.49

5.44

3.61

854.4

861.2

4.82

4.80

3.44

939.4

944.6

30    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    31

 
RISK FACTORS AND CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This report includes forward-looking statements about our plans and future performance, including those under Outlook for 2018. Refer to 

the cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements in Part 1, Item 1A, page 3, of this Form 10-K.

Consolidated Statement of Income 

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

ITEM 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk are included in Part II, Item 7, page 26 of the Form 10-K.

ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Index to consolidated financial statements

Page reference

Consolidated statement of income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017

Consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2017 and 2016

Consolidated statement of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017

Consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017

Notes to consolidated financial statements

Quarterly results (unaudited)

Management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting

Report of independent registered public accounting firm

Report of independent registered public accounting firm on internal control over financial reporting

31
32
33
34
35
36
50
51
52
53

In millions, except per share data
REVENUES
Sales by Company-operated restaurants
Revenues from franchised restaurants

Total revenues

OPERATING COSTS AND EXPENSES
Company-operated restaurant expenses

Food & paper
Payroll & employee benefits
Occupancy & other operating expenses

Franchised restaurants-occupancy expenses
Selling, general & administrative expenses
Other operating (income) expense, net

Total operating costs and expenses

Operating income
Interest expense-net of capitalized interest of $5.3, $7.1 and $9.4
Nonoperating (income) expense, net
Income before provision for income taxes
Provision for income taxes
Net income
Earnings per common share–basic
Earnings per common share–diluted
Dividends declared per common share
Weighted-average shares outstanding–basic
Weighted-average shares outstanding–diluted

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

$ 12,718.9
10,101.5
22,820.4

$ 15,295.0
9,326.9
24,621.9

$ 16,488.3
8,924.7
25,413.0

4,033.5
3,528.5
2,847.6
1,790.0
2,231.3
(1,163.2)
13,267.7
9,552.7
921.3
57.9
8,573.5
3,381.2
$ 5,192.3
6.43
$
6.37
$
3.83
$
807.4
815.5

4,896.9
4,134.2
3,667.7
1,718.4
2,384.5
75.7
16,877.4
7,744.5
884.8
(6.3)
6,866.0
2,179.5
$ 4,686.5
5.49
$
5.44
$
3.61
$
854.4
861.2

5,552.2
4,400.0
4,024.7
1,646.9
2,434.3
209.4
18,267.5
7,145.5
638.3
(48.5)
6,555.7
2,026.4
$ 4,529.3
4.82
$
4.80
$
3.44
$
939.4
944.6

30    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    31

 
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Balance Sheet

In millions

Net income

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

$5,192.3 $4,686.5 $4,529.3

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

Foreign currency translation adjustments:

Gain (loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive

income (AOCI), including net investment hedges

Reclassification of (gain) loss to net income

Foreign currency translation adjustments-net of tax

benefit (expense) of $453.1, $(264.4), and $(209.8)

Cash flow hedges:

Gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
Reclassification of (gain) loss to net income

Cash flow hedges-net of tax benefit (expense) of $22.4, $(1.6),

and $6.2

Defined benefit pension plans:

Gain (loss) recognized in AOCI
Reclassification of (gain) loss to net income

Defined benefit pension plans-net of tax benefit (expense)

of $(3.9), $(10.0), and $1.3

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

Comprehensive income

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

827.7

109.3

(272.8)

94.0

(1,347.4)
1.3

937.0

(178.8)

(1,346.1)

(48.4)
9.0

(39.4)

16.3
0.6

16.9

18.5
(15.6)

22.2
(33.2)

2.9

(11.0)

(47.1)
9.9

(37.2)

(5.4)
2.4

(3.0)

914.5

(213.1)

(1,360.1)

$6,106.8 $4,473.4 $3,169.2

In millions, except per share data
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and equivalents
Accounts and notes receivable
Inventories, at cost, not in excess of market
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Assets of businesses held for sale

Total current assets

Other assets
Investments in and advances to affiliates
Goodwill
Miscellaneous

Total other assets

Property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost
Accumulated depreciation and amortization

Net property and equipment

Total assets
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable
Income taxes
Other taxes
Accrued interest
Accrued payroll and other liabilities
Current maturities of long-term debt
Liabilities of businesses held for sale

Total current liabilities

Long-term debt
Long-term income taxes
Other long-term liabilities
Deferred income taxes
Shareholders’ equity (deficit)
Preferred stock, no par value; authorized – 165.0 million shares; issued – none
Common stock, $.01 par value; authorized – 3.5 billion shares; issued – 1,660.6 million shares
Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Common stock in treasury, at cost; 866.5 and 841.3 million shares

Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity (deficit)

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

December 31, 2017

2016

$ 2,463.8

1,976.2

$ 1,223.4

1,474.1

58.8

828.4

—

5,327.2

1,085.7

2,379.7

2,562.8

6,028.2

58.9

565.2

1,527.0

4,848.6

725.9

2,336.5

1,855.3

4,917.7

36,626.4

(14,178.1)

22,448.3

$ 33,803.7

34,443.4

(13,185.8)

21,257.6

$ 31,023.9

$

$

924.8

265.8

275.4

278.4

1,146.2

—

—

2,890.6

29,536.4

2,370.9

1,154.4

1,119.4

—

16.6

7,072.4

48,325.8

(2,178.4)

(56,504.4)

(3,268.0)

756.0

267.2

266.3

247.5

1,159.3

77.2

694.8

3,468.3

25,878.5

1,010.6

1,053.7

1,817.1

—

16.6

6,757.9

46,222.7

(3,092.9)

(52,108.6)

(2,204.3)

$ 33,803.7

$ 31,023.9

32    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    33

 
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

Consolidated Balance Sheet

In millions

Net income

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

$5,192.3 $4,686.5 $4,529.3

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

Foreign currency translation adjustments:

Gain (loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive

income (AOCI), including net investment hedges

Reclassification of (gain) loss to net income

Foreign currency translation adjustments-net of tax

benefit (expense) of $453.1, $(264.4), and $(209.8)

Cash flow hedges:

Gain (loss) recognized in AOCI

Reclassification of (gain) loss to net income

Cash flow hedges-net of tax benefit (expense) of $22.4, $(1.6),

and $6.2

Defined benefit pension plans:

Gain (loss) recognized in AOCI

Reclassification of (gain) loss to net income

Defined benefit pension plans-net of tax benefit (expense)

of $(3.9), $(10.0), and $1.3

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

Comprehensive income

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

827.7

109.3

(272.8)

94.0

(1,347.4)
1.3

937.0

(178.8)

(1,346.1)

(48.4)

9.0

(39.4)

16.3

0.6

16.9

18.5

(15.6)

22.2
(33.2)

2.9

(11.0)

(47.1)

9.9

(37.2)

(5.4)
2.4

(3.0)

914.5

(213.1)

(1,360.1)

$6,106.8 $4,473.4 $3,169.2

In millions, except per share data
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and equivalents
Accounts and notes receivable
Inventories, at cost, not in excess of market
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Assets of businesses held for sale

Total current assets

Other assets
Investments in and advances to affiliates
Goodwill
Miscellaneous

Total other assets

Property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost
Accumulated depreciation and amortization

Net property and equipment

Total assets
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable
Income taxes
Other taxes
Accrued interest
Accrued payroll and other liabilities
Current maturities of long-term debt
Liabilities of businesses held for sale

Total current liabilities

December 31, 2017

2016

$ 2,463.8
1,976.2
58.8
828.4
—
5,327.2

1,085.7
2,379.7
2,562.8
6,028.2

$ 1,223.4
1,474.1
58.9
565.2
1,527.0
4,848.6

725.9
2,336.5
1,855.3
4,917.7

36,626.4
(14,178.1)
22,448.3
$ 33,803.7

34,443.4
(13,185.8)
21,257.6
$ 31,023.9

$

924.8
265.8
275.4
278.4
1,146.2
—
—
2,890.6
29,536.4
2,370.9
1,154.4
1,119.4

—
16.6
7,072.4
48,325.8
(2,178.4)
(56,504.4)
(3,268.0)
$ 33,803.7

$

756.0
267.2
266.3
247.5
1,159.3
77.2
694.8
3,468.3
25,878.5
1,010.6
1,053.7
1,817.1

—
16.6
6,757.9
46,222.7
(3,092.9)
(52,108.6)
(2,204.3)
$ 31,023.9

Long-term debt
Long-term income taxes
Other long-term liabilities
Deferred income taxes
Shareholders’ equity (deficit)
Preferred stock, no par value; authorized – 165.0 million shares; issued – none
Common stock, $.01 par value; authorized – 3.5 billion shares; issued – 1,660.6 million shares
Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Common stock in treasury, at cost; 866.5 and 841.3 million shares

Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity (deficit)

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

32    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    33

 
Common stock

issued

Shares Amount

Additional

paid-in

capital

Retained

Cash flow

earnings Pensions

hedges

translation

Shares

Foreign

currency

Common stock in

treasury

Amount

shareholders’

Total

equity

1,660.6

$ 16.6

$ 6,239.1

$43,294.5

$ (166.9)

$ 31.0

$(1,383.8)

(697.7) $ (35,177.1) $

12,853.4

Accumulated other

comprehensive income (loss)

(3.0)

(11.0)

(1,346.1)

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity

In millions

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

Operating activities
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile to cash provided by operations

Charges and credits:

Depreciation and amortization
Deferred income taxes
Share-based compensation
Net gain on sale of restaurant businesses
Other

Changes in working capital items:

Accounts receivable
Inventories, prepaid expenses and other current assets
Accounts payable
Income taxes
Other accrued liabilities

Cash provided by operations

Investing activities
Capital expenditures
Purchases of restaurant businesses
Sales of restaurant businesses
Proceeds from sale of businesses in China and Hong Kong
Sales of property
Other

Cash provided by (used for) investing activities

Financing activities
Net short-term borrowings
Long-term financing issuances
Long-term financing repayments
Treasury stock purchases
Common stock dividends
Proceeds from stock option exercises
Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation
Other

Cash provided by (used for) financing activities
Effect of exchange rates on cash and equivalents

Cash and equivalents increase (decrease)
Change in cash balances of businesses held for sale
Cash and equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and equivalents at end of year
Supplemental cash flow disclosures
Interest paid
Income taxes paid

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

$ 5,192.3 $ 4,686.5 $ 4,529.3

1,363.4
(36.4)
117.5
(1,155.8)
1,050.7

(340.7)
(37.3)
(59.7)
(396.4)
(146.4)
5,551.2

(1,853.7)
(77.0)
974.8
1,597.0
166.8
(245.9)
562.0

1,516.5
(538.6)
131.3
(310.7)
407.6

(159.0)
28.1
89.8
169.7
38.4
6,059.6

(1,821.1)
(109.5)
975.6
—
82.9
(109.5)
(981.6)

1,555.7
(1.4)
110.0
(163.9)
341.5

(180.6)
44.9
(15.0)
(64.4)
383.0
6,539.1

(1,813.9)
(140.6)
341.1
—
213.1
(19.7)
(1,420.0)

(1,050.3)
4,727.5
(1,649.4)
(4,685.7)
(3,089.2)
456.8
—
(20.5)
(5,310.8)
264.0
1,066.4
174.0
1,223.4

589.7
(286.2)
10,220.0
3,779.5
(1,054.5)
(822.9)
(6,099.2)
(11,171.0)
(3,230.3)
(3,058.2)
317.2
299.4
51.1
—
(58.7)
(3.0)
735.3
(11,262.4)
(246.8)
(103.7)
5,607.6
(6,288.1)
—
(174.0)
2,077.9
7,685.5
$ 2,463.8 $ 1,223.4 $ 7,685.5

$ 885.2 $
2,786.3

873.5 $

2,387.5

640.8
1,985.4

In millions, except per share data
Balance at December 31, 2014
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss),

net of tax

Comprehensive income

Common stock cash dividends

($3.44 per share)

Treasury stock purchases
Share-based compensation
Stock option exercises and other

(including tax benefits of $44.8)

Balance at December 31, 2015
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss),

net of tax

Comprehensive income

Common stock cash dividends

($3.61 per share)

Treasury stock purchases
Share-based compensation
Stock option exercises and other

(including tax benefits of $0.6)

Balance at December 31, 2016
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss),

net of tax

Comprehensive income

Common stock cash dividends

($3.83 per share)

Treasury stock purchases
Share-based compensation
Stock option exercises and other

(including tax benefits of $0.0)

4,529.3

(3,230.3)

1.0

4,686.5

(3,058.2)

(0.1)

5,192.3

(3,089.2)

110.0

184.3

131.3

93.2

117.5

197.0

1,660.6

16.6

6,533.4

44,594.5

(169.9)

20.0

(2,729.9)

(753.8)

(41,176.8)

(37.2)

2.9

(178.8)

1,660.6

16.6

6,757.9

46,222.7

(207.1)

22.9

(2,908.7)

(841.3)

(52,108.6)

16.9

(39.4)

937.0

(31.4)

(4,650.5)

—  

6.2

254.7

451.7

(61.8)

(6,182.2)

5.7

182.5

(92.3)

(11,141.5)

(11,141.5)

4.8

209.7

4,529.3

(1,360.1)

3,169.2

(3,230.3)

(6,182.2)

110.0

367.8

7,087.9

4,686.5

(213.1)

4,473.4

(3,058.2)

131.3

302.8

(2,204.3)

5,192.3

914.5

6,106.8

(3,089.2)

(4,650.5)

117.5

Balance at December 31, 2017

1,660.6

$ 16.6

$ 7,072.4

$48,325.8

$ (190.2)

$(16.5) $(1,971.7)

(866.5) $ (56,504.4) $

(3,268.0)

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

34    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

Consolidated Statement of Shareholders’ Equity

In millions

Operating activities

Net income

Adjustments to reconcile to cash provided by operations

Charges and credits:

Depreciation and amortization

Deferred income taxes

Share-based compensation

Other

Changes in working capital items:

Accounts receivable

Net gain on sale of restaurant businesses

Inventories, prepaid expenses and other current assets

Accounts payable

Income taxes

Other accrued liabilities

Cash provided by operations

Investing activities

Capital expenditures

Purchases of restaurant businesses

Sales of restaurant businesses

Proceeds from sale of businesses in China and Hong Kong

Cash provided by (used for) investing activities

Sales of property

Other

Financing activities

Net short-term borrowings

Long-term financing issuances

Long-term financing repayments

Treasury stock purchases

Common stock dividends

Proceeds from stock option exercises

Excess tax benefit on share-based compensation

Other

Cash provided by (used for) financing activities

Effect of exchange rates on cash and equivalents

Cash and equivalents increase (decrease)

Change in cash balances of businesses held for sale

Cash and equivalents at beginning of year

Cash and equivalents at end of year

Supplemental cash flow disclosures

Interest paid

Income taxes paid

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

$ 5,192.3 $ 4,686.5 $ 4,529.3

1,363.4

1,516.5

(36.4)

117.5

(1,155.8)

1,050.7

(340.7)

(37.3)

(59.7)

(396.4)

(146.4)

(77.0)

974.8

1,597.0

166.8

(245.9)

562.0

(538.6)

131.3

(310.7)

407.6

(159.0)

28.1

89.8

169.7

38.4

(109.5)

975.6

—

82.9

(109.5)

(981.6)

1,555.7
(1.4)
110.0
(163.9)
341.5

(180.6)
44.9
(15.0)
(64.4)
383.0
6,539.1

(1,813.9)
(140.6)
341.1
—
213.1
(19.7)
(1,420.0)

5,551.2

6,059.6

(1,853.7)

(1,821.1)

—

299.4

456.8

(822.9)

(286.2)

3,779.5

4,727.5

(3,058.2)

(3,089.2)

(1,649.4)

(4,685.7)

(1,050.3)

(11,171.0)

589.7
10,220.0
(1,054.5)
(6,099.2)
(3,230.3)
317.2
51.1
(58.7)
735.3
(246.8)
5,607.6
—
2,077.9
$ 2,463.8 $ 1,223.4 $ 7,685.5

(11,262.4)

(5,310.8)

(6,288.1)

1,066.4

1,223.4

7,685.5

(174.0)

(103.7)

(20.5)

174.0

264.0

(3.0)

—

$ 885.2 $

873.5 $

2,786.3

2,387.5

640.8
1,985.4

In millions, except per share data
Balance at December 31, 2014
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss),

net of tax
Comprehensive income
Common stock cash dividends

($3.44 per share)

Treasury stock purchases
Share-based compensation
Stock option exercises and other

(including tax benefits of $44.8)

Balance at December 31, 2015
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss),

net of tax
Comprehensive income
Common stock cash dividends

($3.61 per share)

Treasury stock purchases
Share-based compensation
Stock option exercises and other
(including tax benefits of $0.6)

Balance at December 31, 2016
Net income
Other comprehensive income (loss),

net of tax
Comprehensive income
Common stock cash dividends

($3.83 per share)

Common stock
issued

Shares Amount
$ 16.6
1,660.6

Additional
paid-in
capital

$ 6,239.1

Accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss)

Retained
earnings Pensions

Cash flow
hedges

Foreign
currency
translation

$43,294.5
4,529.3

$ (166.9)

$ 31.0

$(1,383.8)

(3.0)

(11.0)

(1,346.1)

Common stock in
treasury

Shares
(697.7) $ (35,177.1) $

Amount

Total
shareholders’
equity

110.0

184.3

1,660.6

16.6

6,533.4

131.3

93.2

1,660.6

16.6

6,757.9

(3,230.3)

1.0

44,594.5
4,686.5

(3,058.2)

(0.1)

46,222.7
5,192.3

(3,089.2)

(61.8)

(6,182.2)

5.7

182.5

(169.9)

20.0

(2,729.9)

(753.8)

(41,176.8)

(37.2)

2.9

(178.8)

(92.3)

(11,141.5)

4.8

209.7

(207.1)

22.9

(2,908.7)

(841.3)

(52,108.6)

16.9

(39.4)

937.0

(31.4)

(4,650.5)

12,853.4
4,529.3

(1,360.1)

3,169.2

(3,230.3)

(6,182.2)
110.0

367.8

7,087.9
4,686.5

(213.1)

4,473.4

(3,058.2)

(11,141.5)
131.3

302.8

(2,204.3)
5,192.3

914.5

6,106.8

(3,089.2)

(4,650.5)
117.5

Treasury stock purchases
Share-based compensation
Stock option exercises and other
(including tax benefits of $0.0)

117.5

197.0

Balance at December 31, 2017

1,660.6

$ 16.6

$ 7,072.4

$48,325.8

$ (190.2)

$(16.5) $(1,971.7)

(866.5) $ (56,504.4) $

(3,268.0)

See Notes to consolidated financial statements.

—  

6.2

254.7

451.7

34    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

NATURE OF BUSINESS
The Company franchises and operates McDonald’s restaurants in 
the global restaurant industry. All restaurants are operated either 
by the Company or by franchisees, including conventional 
franchisees under franchise arrangements, and developmental 
licensees and foreign affiliates under license agreements.

The following table presents restaurant information by 

ownership type:

Restaurants at December 31,
Conventional franchised
Developmental licensed
Foreign affiliated
Franchised
Company-operated
Systemwide restaurants

2017
21,366
6,945
5,797
34,108
3,133
37,241

2016
21,559
6,300
3,371
31,230
5,669
36,899

2015
21,147
5,529
3,405
30,081
6,444
36,525

The results of operations of restaurant businesses purchased 
and sold in transactions with franchisees were not material either 
individually or in the aggregate to the consolidated financial 
statements for periods prior to purchase and sale.

CONSOLIDATION
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the 
Company and its subsidiaries. Investments in affiliates owned 50% 
or less (primarily McDonald’s Japan and China) are accounted for 
by the equity method.

On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its business 

relationships such as those with franchisees, joint venture 
partners, developmental licensees, suppliers, and advertising 
cooperatives to identify potential variable interest entities. 
Generally, these businesses qualify for a scope exception under 
the variable interest entity consolidation guidance. The Company 
has concluded that consolidation of any such entity is not 
appropriate for the periods presented.

ESTIMATES IN FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with 
accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires 
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the 
amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying 
notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

Measurement Period - Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017

On December 22, 2017, the Securities and Exchange 
Commission's Office of the Chief Accountant published Staff 
Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SAB 118), which provides guidance 
on reporting for accounting impacts of the recently enacted tax 
reform legislation. SAB 118 permits the Company to provide 
reasonable estimates for the income tax effects of the Tax Cuts 
and Jobs Act of 2017 (“Tax Act”) and to report the effects as 
provisional amounts in its financial statements during a limited 
measurement period.  Under SAB 118, the measurement period 
may not extend beyond one year from the enactment of the Tax 
Act.

Derivatives and Hedging

In August 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board 
("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 
2017-12, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted 
Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities”. ASU 2017-12 
expands components of fair value hedging, specifies the 

36    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

recognition and presentation of the effects of hedging instruments, 
and eliminates the separate measurement and presentation of 
hedge ineffectiveness. The Company anticipates it will early adopt 
ASU 2017-12 in 2018 utilizing the modified retrospective transition 
method.  The Company anticipates the adoption of this standard 
will not have a material impact on its financial statements.

Intangibles

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Intangibles - 
Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill 
Impairment,” which removes the requirement to compare the 
implied fair value of goodwill with its carrying amount as part of 
step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. As a result, an impairment 
charge will be recorded based on the excess of a reporting unit's 
carrying amount over its fair value. ASU 2017-04 is effective for 
fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early 
adoption permitted for annual and interim goodwill impairment 
testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company has not made a 
determination on if it will early adopt ASU 2017-04, but it does not 
expect an impact to the consolidated financial statements from the 
adoption.

Income Taxes

In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, “Income Taxes 
(Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory.” 
The goal of this update is to improve the accounting for the 
income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other 
than inventory. ASU 2016-16 is effective for fiscal years beginning 
after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those 
annual reporting periods. ASU 2016-16 will impact the Company’s 
consolidated balance sheet, resulting in a cumulative catch up 
adjustment within miscellaneous other assets. The adjustment is 
expected to be less than 1% of retained earnings as of December 
31, 2017. The Company expects little to no impact on the 
consolidated statements of income and cash flows.

Lease Accounting

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 
842),” to increase transparency and comparability among 
organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on 
the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing 
arrangements.  Most prominent among the amendments is the 
recognition of assets and liabilities by lessees for those leases 
classified as operating leases under current U.S. GAAP. ASU 
2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 
2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early 
adoption permitted.  The Company will adopt the new standard 
effective January 1, 2019.

At transition, the Company will recognize and measure 

leases using the required modified retrospective approach. The 
Company anticipates ASU 2016-02 will have a material impact to 
the consolidated balance sheet due to the significance of the 
Company’s operating lease portfolio as described in Leasing 
Arrangements. The Company will elect an optional practical 
expedient to retain the current classification of leases, and, 
therefore, anticipates a minimal initial impact on the consolidated 
statement of income. The impact of ASU 2016-02 is non-cash in 
nature; as such, it will not affect the Company’s cash flows. 

REVENUE RECOGNITION
The Company’s revenues consist of sales by Company-operated 
restaurants and fees from franchised restaurants operated by 
conventional franchisees, developmental licensees and foreign 
affiliates.

Sales by Company-operated restaurants are recognized on a 

cash basis. The Company presents sales net of sales tax and 
other sales-related taxes. Revenues from conventional franchised 
restaurants include rent and royalties based on a percent of sales 

with minimum rent payments, and initial fees. Revenues from 
restaurants licensed to foreign affiliates and developmental 
licensees include a royalty based on a percent of sales, and may 
include initial fees. Continuing rent and royalties are recognized in 
the period earned. For the periods presented, initial fees are 
recognized upon opening of a restaurant or granting of a new 
franchise term.

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance codified in 

Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 606, "Revenue 
Recognition - Revenue from Contracts with Customers," which 
amends the guidance in former ASC 605, "Revenue Recognition." 
The core principle of the standard is to recognize revenue when 
promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an 
amount that reflects the consideration expected to be received for 
those goods or services. The standard also calls for additional 
disclosures around the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of 
revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. 
The Company will adopt the standard effective January 1, 2018. 

The standard may be applied retrospectively to each prior 

period presented or retrospectively with the cumulative effect 
recognized as of the date of adoption ("modified retrospective 
method"). The Company has selected to apply the modified 
retrospective method. 

The Company has determined that this standard will not 

impact its recognition of revenue from Company-operated 
restaurants or its recognition of royalties from restaurants 
operated by franchisees or licensed to affiliates and 
developmental licensees, which are based on a percent of sales. 
The standard will change the manner in which the Company 
recognizes initial fees from franchisees for new restaurant 
openings or from new franchise terms. 

The Company's accounting policy through December 31, 

2017 was to recognize initial franchise fees when a new restaurant 
opens or at the start of a new franchise term. In accordance with 
the new guidance, the initial franchise services are not distinct 
from the continuing rights or services offered during the term of the 
franchise agreement, and will therefore be treated as a single 
performance obligation. As such, beginning in January 2018, initial 
fees received will be recognized over the franchise term, which is 
generally 20 years. 

The cumulative catch-up adjustment to be recorded upon 

adoption is expected to consist of deferred revenue of 
approximately $600 million within long-term liabilities and 
approximately $150 million of additional deferred tax assets within 
miscellaneous other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. 
The Company expects the adoption of this standard to negatively 
impact 2018 consolidated franchised revenues and franchised 
margins by approximately $50 million. No impact to the 
Company's consolidated statement of cash flows is expected as 
the initial fees will continue to be collected upon store opening 
date or the beginning of a new franchise term.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
Generally, the functional currency of operations outside the U.S. is 
the respective local currency.

ADVERTISING COSTS
Advertising costs included in operating expenses of Company-
operated restaurants primarily consist of contributions to 
advertising cooperatives and were (in millions): 2017–$532.9; 
2016–$645.8; 2015–$718.7. Production costs for radio and 
television advertising are expensed when the commercials are 
initially aired. These production costs, primarily in the U.S., as well 
as other marketing-related expenses included in Selling, general & 
administrative expenses were (in millions): 2017–$100.2; 2016–
$88.8; 2015–$113.8. Costs related to the Olympics sponsorship 
are included in the expenses for 2016. In addition, significant 
advertising costs are incurred by franchisees through contributions 

to advertising cooperatives in individual markets. The costs 

incurred by these advertising cooperatives are approved and 

managed jointly by vote of both Company-operated restaurants 

and franchisees.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    37

 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

NATURE OF BUSINESS

The Company franchises and operates McDonald’s restaurants in 

the global restaurant industry. All restaurants are operated either 

by the Company or by franchisees, including conventional 

franchisees under franchise arrangements, and developmental 

licensees and foreign affiliates under license agreements.

The following table presents restaurant information by 

ownership type:

Restaurants at December 31,

Conventional franchised

Developmental licensed

Foreign affiliated

Franchised

Company-operated

Systemwide restaurants

2017

21,366

6,945

5,797

34,108

3,133

37,241

2016

2015

21,559

21,147

6,300

3,371

31,230

5,669

36,899

5,529

3,405

30,081

6,444

36,525

The results of operations of restaurant businesses purchased 

and sold in transactions with franchisees were not material either 

individually or in the aggregate to the consolidated financial 

statements for periods prior to purchase and sale.

CONSOLIDATION

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the 

Company and its subsidiaries. Investments in affiliates owned 50% 

or less (primarily McDonald’s Japan and China) are accounted for 

by the equity method.

On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates its business 

relationships such as those with franchisees, joint venture 

partners, developmental licensees, suppliers, and advertising 

cooperatives to identify potential variable interest entities. 

Generally, these businesses qualify for a scope exception under 

the variable interest entity consolidation guidance. The Company 

has concluded that consolidation of any such entity is not 

appropriate for the periods presented.

ESTIMATES IN FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with 

accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires 

management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the 

amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying 

notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

Measurement Period - Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017

On December 22, 2017, the Securities and Exchange 

Commission's Office of the Chief Accountant published Staff 

Accounting Bulletin No. 118 (SAB 118), which provides guidance 

on reporting for accounting impacts of the recently enacted tax 

reform legislation. SAB 118 permits the Company to provide 

reasonable estimates for the income tax effects of the Tax Cuts 

and Jobs Act of 2017 (“Tax Act”) and to report the effects as 

provisional amounts in its financial statements during a limited 

measurement period.  Under SAB 118, the measurement period 

may not extend beyond one year from the enactment of the Tax 

Act.

Derivatives and Hedging

In August 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board 

("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 

2017-12, “Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted 

Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities”. ASU 2017-12 

expands components of fair value hedging, specifies the 

36    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

recognition and presentation of the effects of hedging instruments, 

and eliminates the separate measurement and presentation of 

hedge ineffectiveness. The Company anticipates it will early adopt 
ASU 2017-12 in 2018 utilizing the modified retrospective transition 

method.  The Company anticipates the adoption of this standard 

will not have a material impact on its financial statements.

Intangibles

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, “Intangibles - 

Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill 

Impairment,” which removes the requirement to compare the 

implied fair value of goodwill with its carrying amount as part of 

step 2 of the goodwill impairment test. As a result, an impairment 
charge will be recorded based on the excess of a reporting unit's 

carrying amount over its fair value. ASU 2017-04 is effective for 

fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, with early 

adoption permitted for annual and interim goodwill impairment 

testing dates after January 1, 2017. The Company has not made a 
determination on if it will early adopt ASU 2017-04, but it does not 
expect an impact to the consolidated financial statements from the 

adoption.

Income Taxes

In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-16, “Income Taxes 

(Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory.” 

The goal of this update is to improve the accounting for the 

income tax consequences of intra-entity transfers of assets other 
than inventory. ASU 2016-16 is effective for fiscal years beginning 

after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those 

annual reporting periods. ASU 2016-16 will impact the Company’s 

consolidated balance sheet, resulting in a cumulative catch up 

adjustment within miscellaneous other assets. The adjustment is 
expected to be less than 1% of retained earnings as of December 

31, 2017. The Company expects little to no impact on the 

consolidated statements of income and cash flows.

Lease Accounting

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 

842),” to increase transparency and comparability among 

organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on 

the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing 

arrangements.  Most prominent among the amendments is the 

recognition of assets and liabilities by lessees for those leases 

classified as operating leases under current U.S. GAAP. ASU 

2016-02 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 
2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early 

adoption permitted.  The Company will adopt the new standard 

effective January 1, 2019.

At transition, the Company will recognize and measure 

leases using the required modified retrospective approach. The 

Company anticipates ASU 2016-02 will have a material impact to 

the consolidated balance sheet due to the significance of the 

Company’s operating lease portfolio as described in Leasing 

Arrangements. The Company will elect an optional practical 

expedient to retain the current classification of leases, and, 

therefore, anticipates a minimal initial impact on the consolidated 

statement of income. The impact of ASU 2016-02 is non-cash in 

nature; as such, it will not affect the Company’s cash flows. 

REVENUE RECOGNITION

The Company’s revenues consist of sales by Company-operated 

restaurants and fees from franchised restaurants operated by 

conventional franchisees, developmental licensees and foreign 

affiliates.

Sales by Company-operated restaurants are recognized on a 

cash basis. The Company presents sales net of sales tax and 

other sales-related taxes. Revenues from conventional franchised 
restaurants include rent and royalties based on a percent of sales 

with minimum rent payments, and initial fees. Revenues from 
restaurants licensed to foreign affiliates and developmental 
licensees include a royalty based on a percent of sales, and may 
include initial fees. Continuing rent and royalties are recognized in 
the period earned. For the periods presented, initial fees are 
recognized upon opening of a restaurant or granting of a new 
franchise term.

In May 2014, the FASB issued guidance codified in 
Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 606, "Revenue 
Recognition - Revenue from Contracts with Customers," which 
amends the guidance in former ASC 605, "Revenue Recognition." 
The core principle of the standard is to recognize revenue when 
promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an 
amount that reflects the consideration expected to be received for 
those goods or services. The standard also calls for additional 
disclosures around the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of 
revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. 
The Company will adopt the standard effective January 1, 2018. 

The standard may be applied retrospectively to each prior 

period presented or retrospectively with the cumulative effect 
recognized as of the date of adoption ("modified retrospective 
method"). The Company has selected to apply the modified 
retrospective method. 

The Company has determined that this standard will not 

impact its recognition of revenue from Company-operated 
restaurants or its recognition of royalties from restaurants 
operated by franchisees or licensed to affiliates and 
developmental licensees, which are based on a percent of sales. 
The standard will change the manner in which the Company 
recognizes initial fees from franchisees for new restaurant 
openings or from new franchise terms. 

The Company's accounting policy through December 31, 
2017 was to recognize initial franchise fees when a new restaurant 
opens or at the start of a new franchise term. In accordance with 
the new guidance, the initial franchise services are not distinct 
from the continuing rights or services offered during the term of the 
franchise agreement, and will therefore be treated as a single 
performance obligation. As such, beginning in January 2018, initial 
fees received will be recognized over the franchise term, which is 
generally 20 years. 

The cumulative catch-up adjustment to be recorded upon 

adoption is expected to consist of deferred revenue of 
approximately $600 million within long-term liabilities and 
approximately $150 million of additional deferred tax assets within 
miscellaneous other assets on the consolidated balance sheet. 
The Company expects the adoption of this standard to negatively 
impact 2018 consolidated franchised revenues and franchised 
margins by approximately $50 million. No impact to the 
Company's consolidated statement of cash flows is expected as 
the initial fees will continue to be collected upon store opening 
date or the beginning of a new franchise term.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION
Generally, the functional currency of operations outside the U.S. is 
the respective local currency.

ADVERTISING COSTS
Advertising costs included in operating expenses of Company-
operated restaurants primarily consist of contributions to 
advertising cooperatives and were (in millions): 2017–$532.9; 
2016–$645.8; 2015–$718.7. Production costs for radio and 
television advertising are expensed when the commercials are 
initially aired. These production costs, primarily in the U.S., as well 
as other marketing-related expenses included in Selling, general & 
administrative expenses were (in millions): 2017–$100.2; 2016–
$88.8; 2015–$113.8. Costs related to the Olympics sponsorship 
are included in the expenses for 2016. In addition, significant 
advertising costs are incurred by franchisees through contributions 

to advertising cooperatives in individual markets. The costs 
incurred by these advertising cooperatives are approved and 
managed jointly by vote of both Company-operated restaurants 
and franchisees.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    37

 
GOODWILL
Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the net tangible assets and identifiable intangible assets of acquired restaurant businesses. The 
Company's goodwill primarily results from purchases of McDonald's restaurants from franchisees and ownership increases in subsidiaries or 
affiliates, and it is generally assigned to the reporting unit (defined as each individual country) expected to benefit from the synergies of the 
combination. If a Company-operated restaurant is sold within 24 months of acquisition, the goodwill associated with the acquisition is written 
off in its entirety. If a restaurant is sold beyond 24 months from the acquisition, the amount of goodwill written off is based on the relative fair 
value of the business sold compared to the reporting unit.

The following table presents the 2017 activity in goodwill by segment:

In millions

Balance at December 31, 2016
Net restaurant purchases (sales)
Currency translation
Balance at December 31, 2017

U.S.

$ 1,283.3

(9.3)

$ 1,274.0

International

Lead Markets

$ 681.2

2.5

66.8

$ 750.5

Markets

$ 280.1

0.7

35.9

$ 316.7

High Growth

Foundational Markets

& Corporate

Consolidated

$ 91.9

(58.2)

4.8

$ 38.5

$2,336.5

(64.3)

107.5

$2,379.7

The Company conducts goodwill impairment testing in the fourth quarter of each year or whenever an indicator of impairment exists. If 

an indicator of impairment exists (e.g., estimated earnings multiple value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value), the goodwill 
impairment test compares the fair value of a reporting unit, generally based on discounted future cash flows, with its carrying amount 
including goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is measured as the difference 
between the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill and the carrying amount of goodwill. Historically, goodwill impairment has not 
significantly impacted the consolidated financial statements. Accumulated impairment losses on the consolidated balance sheet at 
December 31, 2017 and 2016 were $14.5 million and $96.6 million, respectively.

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment are stated at cost, with depreciation and 
amortization provided using the straight-line method over the 
following estimated useful lives: buildings–up to 40 years; 
leasehold improvements–the lesser of useful lives of assets or 
lease terms, which generally include certain option periods; and 
equipment–3 to 12 years.

LONG-LIVED ASSETS
Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment annually in the 
fourth quarter and whenever events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be 
recoverable. For purposes of annually reviewing McDonald’s 
restaurant assets for potential impairment, assets are initially 
grouped together in the U.S. at a television market level, and 
internationally, at a country level. The Company manages its 
restaurants as a group or portfolio with significant common costs 
and promotional activities; as such, an individual restaurant’s cash 
flows are not generally independent of the cash flows of others in 
a market. If an indicator of impairment exists for any grouping of 
assets, an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows produced 
by each individual restaurant within the asset grouping is 
compared to its carrying value. If an individual restaurant is 
determined to be impaired, the loss is measured by the excess of 
the carrying amount of the restaurant over its fair value as 
determined by an estimate of discounted future cash flows.

Losses on assets held for disposal are recognized when 

management and the Board of Directors, as required, have 
approved and committed to a plan to dispose of the assets, the 
assets are available for disposal and the disposal is probable of 
occurring within 12 months, and the net sales proceeds are 
expected to be less than its net book value, among other factors. 
Generally, such losses related to restaurants that have closed and 
ceased operations as well as other assets that meet the criteria to 
be considered “available for sale."

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
Share-based compensation includes the portion vesting of all 
share-based awards granted based on the grant date fair value.

Share-based compensation expense and the effect on diluted 

earnings per common share were as follows:

In millions, except per share data
2017
Share-based compensation expense $ 117.5
After tax
$ 82.0
Earnings per common share-diluted
$ 0.10

2016
$ 131.3
$ 89.6
$ 0.11

2015
$ 110.0
$ 76.0
$ 0.08

Compensation expense related to share-based awards is 
generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period 
in Selling, general & administrative expenses. As of December 31, 
2017, there was $106.0 million of total unrecognized 
compensation cost related to nonvested share-based 
compensation that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-
average period of 2.0 years.

The fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on 
the date of grant using a closed-form pricing model. The following 
table presents the weighted-average assumptions used in the 
option pricing model for the 2017, 2016 and 2015 stock option 
grants. The expected life of the options represents the period of 
time the options are expected to be outstanding and is based on 
historical trends. Expected stock price volatility is generally based 
on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock for a period 
approximating the expected life. The expected dividend yield is 
based on the Company’s most recent annual dividend rate. The 
risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in 
effect at the time of grant with a term equal to the expected life.

Weighted-average assumptions 

Expected dividend yield
Expected stock price volatility
Risk-free interest rate
Expected life of options

(in years)

2017

2016

2015

3.1%
18.4%
2.2%
5.9

3.0%
19.2%
1.2%
5.9

3.6%
18.8%
1.7%
6.0

Fair value per option granted

$16.10

$13.65

$10.43

The fair value of RSUs is based on the closing price of the 

Company's common stock on the grant date, less the present 
value of expected dividends over the vesting period.  For 
performance-based RSUs granted beginning in 2016, the 
Company includes a relative Total Shareholder Return ("TSR") 
modifier to determine the number of shares earned at the end of 
the performance period.  The fair value of performance-based 
RSUs that include the TSR modifier is determined using a Monte 
Carlo valuation model.

38    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    39

 
GOODWILL
Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the net tangible assets and identifiable intangible assets of acquired restaurant businesses. The 
Company's goodwill primarily results from purchases of McDonald's restaurants from franchisees and ownership increases in subsidiaries or 
affiliates, and it is generally assigned to the reporting unit (defined as each individual country) expected to benefit from the synergies of the 
combination. If a Company-operated restaurant is sold within 24 months of acquisition, the goodwill associated with the acquisition is written 
off in its entirety. If a restaurant is sold beyond 24 months from the acquisition, the amount of goodwill written off is based on the relative fair 
value of the business sold compared to the reporting unit.

The following table presents the 2017 activity in goodwill by segment:

In millions

Balance at December 31, 2016
Net restaurant purchases (sales)
Currency translation
Balance at December 31, 2017

U.S.

$ 1,283.3
(9.3)

$ 1,274.0

International
Lead Markets

High Growth
Markets

Foundational Markets
& Corporate

$ 681.2
2.5
66.8
$ 750.5

$ 280.1
0.7
35.9
$ 316.7

$ 91.9
(58.2)
4.8
$ 38.5

Consolidated

$ 2,336.5
(64.3)
107.5
$ 2,379.7

The Company conducts goodwill impairment testing in the fourth quarter of each year or whenever an indicator of impairment exists. If 

an indicator of impairment exists (e.g., estimated earnings multiple value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying value), the goodwill 
impairment test compares the fair value of a reporting unit, generally based on discounted future cash flows, with its carrying amount 
including goodwill. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is measured as the difference 
between the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill and the carrying amount of goodwill. Historically, goodwill impairment has not 
significantly impacted the consolidated financial statements. Accumulated impairment losses on the consolidated balance sheet at 
December 31, 2017 and 2016 were $14.5 million and $96.6 million, respectively.

SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Share-based compensation includes the portion vesting of all 

Property and equipment are stated at cost, with depreciation and 

share-based awards granted based on the grant date fair value.

amortization provided using the straight-line method over the 

Share-based compensation expense and the effect on diluted 

following estimated useful lives: buildings–up to 40 years; 

leasehold improvements–the lesser of useful lives of assets or 

lease terms, which generally include certain option periods; and 

equipment–3 to 12 years.

LONG-LIVED ASSETS

Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment annually in the 

fourth quarter and whenever events or changes in circumstances 

indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be 

recoverable. For purposes of annually reviewing McDonald’s 

restaurant assets for potential impairment, assets are initially 

grouped together in the U.S. at a television market level, and 

internationally, at a country level. The Company manages its 

restaurants as a group or portfolio with significant common costs 
and promotional activities; as such, an individual restaurant’s cash 
flows are not generally independent of the cash flows of others in 

a market. If an indicator of impairment exists for any grouping of 

assets, an estimate of undiscounted future cash flows produced 

by each individual restaurant within the asset grouping is 

compared to its carrying value. If an individual restaurant is 

determined to be impaired, the loss is measured by the excess of 

the carrying amount of the restaurant over its fair value as 

determined by an estimate of discounted future cash flows.

Losses on assets held for disposal are recognized when 

management and the Board of Directors, as required, have 

approved and committed to a plan to dispose of the assets, the 

assets are available for disposal and the disposal is probable of 

occurring within 12 months, and the net sales proceeds are 

expected to be less than its net book value, among other factors. 
Generally, such losses related to restaurants that have closed and 
ceased operations as well as other assets that meet the criteria to 

be considered “available for sale."

earnings per common share were as follows:

In millions, except per share data

Share-based compensation expense $ 117.5

After tax

Earnings per common share-diluted

2017

$ 82.0

$ 0.10

2016

$ 131.3

$ 89.6

$ 0.11

2015

$ 110.0

$ 76.0

$ 0.08

Compensation expense related to share-based awards is 

generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period 

in Selling, general & administrative expenses. As of December 31, 

2017, there was $106.0 million of total unrecognized 

compensation cost related to nonvested share-based 

compensation that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-

average period of 2.0 years.

The fair value of each stock option granted is estimated on 

the date of grant using a closed-form pricing model. The following 

table presents the weighted-average assumptions used in the 

option pricing model for the 2017, 2016 and 2015 stock option 

grants. The expected life of the options represents the period of 

time the options are expected to be outstanding and is based on 

historical trends. Expected stock price volatility is generally based 

on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock for a period 

approximating the expected life. The expected dividend yield is 

based on the Company’s most recent annual dividend rate. The 

risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in 

effect at the time of grant with a term equal to the expected life.

Weighted-average assumptions 

Expected dividend yield

Expected stock price volatility

Risk-free interest rate

Expected life of options

(in years)

2017

2016

2015

3.1%

18.4%

2.2%

5.9

3.0%

19.2%

1.2%

5.9

3.6%

18.8%

1.7%

6.0

Fair value per option granted

$16.10

$13.65

$10.43

The fair value of RSUs is based on the closing price of the 

Company's common stock on the grant date, less the present 

value of expected dividends over the vesting period.  For 

performance-based RSUs granted beginning in 2016, the 

Company includes a relative Total Shareholder Return ("TSR") 

modifier to determine the number of shares earned at the end of 

the performance period.  The fair value of performance-based 

RSUs that include the TSR modifier is determined using a Monte 

Carlo valuation model.

38    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    39

 
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS 
The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at 
fair value on a recurring basis, and certain non-financial assets 
and liabilities on a nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as the 
price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a 
liability in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly 
transaction between market participants on the measurement 
date. Fair value disclosures are reflected in a three-level hierarchy, 
maximizing the use of observable inputs and minimizing the use of 
unobservable inputs.

The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of 
inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability on the measurement 
date. The three levels are defined as follows:

Level 1 – inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted 
prices (unadjusted) for an identical asset or liability in an 
active market.

Level 2 – inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted 
prices for a similar asset or liability in an active market or 
model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are 
observable for substantially the full term of the asset or 
liability.

Level 3 – inputs to the valuation methodology are 
unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement 
of the asset or liability.

Certain of the Company’s derivatives are valued using various 

pricing models or discounted cash flow analyses that incorporate 
observable market parameters, such as interest rate yield curves, 
option volatilities and currency rates, classified as Level 2 within 
the valuation hierarchy. Derivative valuations incorporate credit 
risk adjustments that are necessary to reflect the probability of 
default by the counterparty or the Company. 

  Certain Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair 

Value

The following tables present financial assets and liabilities 
measured at fair value on a recurring basis by the valuation 
hierarchy as defined in the fair value guidance:  

December 31, 2017

In millions

Derivative assets
Derivative liabilities

December 31, 2016

In millions

Derivative assets
Derivative liabilities

Level 1*

$ 167.3

Level 2

$
0.6
$ (45.4)

Carrying
Value

$ 167.9
$ (45.4)

Level 1*

$ 134.3

Level 2

$ 47.0
(5.6)
$

Carrying
Value

$ 181.3
(5.6)
$

* 

Level 1 is comprised of derivatives that hedge market driven changes in 
liabilities associated with the Company’s supplemental benefit plans.

  Non-Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair 

The following table presents the fair values of derivative instruments included on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 

Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

2017 and 2016:

Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a 
nonrecurring basis; that is, the assets and liabilities are not 
measured at fair value on an ongoing basis, but are subject to fair 
value adjustments in certain circumstances (e.g., when there is 
evidence of impairment). For the year ended December 31, 2017, 
the Company recorded fair value adjustments to its long-lived 
assets, primarily to property and equipment, based on Level 3 
inputs which includes the use of a discounted cash flow valuation 
approach. 

  Certain Financial Assets and Liabilities not Measured at 

Fair Value

At December 31, 2017, the fair value of the Company’s debt 
obligations was estimated at $31.8 billion, compared to a carrying 
amount of $29.5 billion. The fair value was based on quoted 
market prices, Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. The carrying 
amount for both cash equivalents and notes receivable 
approximate fair value.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
The Company is exposed to global market risks, including the 
effect of changes in interest rates and foreign currency 
fluctuations. The Company uses foreign currency denominated 
debt and derivative instruments to mitigate the impact of these 
changes. The Company does not hold or issue derivatives for 
trading purposes.

The Company documents its risk management objective and 

strategy for undertaking hedging transactions, as well as all 
relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items. The 
Company’s derivatives that are designated for hedge accounting 
consist mainly of interest rate swaps, foreign currency forwards, 
and cross-currency swaps, and are classified as either fair value, 
cash flow or net investment hedges. Further details are explained 
in the "Fair Value," "Cash Flow" and "Net Investment" hedge 
sections.

The Company also enters into certain derivatives that are not 
designated for hedge accounting. The Company has entered into 
equity derivative contracts, including total return swaps, to hedge 
market-driven changes in certain of its supplemental benefit plan 
liabilities. In addition, the Company uses foreign currency forwards 
to mitigate the change in fair value of certain foreign currency 
denominated assets and liabilities. Further details are explained in 
the “Undesignated Derivatives” section.

All derivatives (including those not designated for hedge 
accounting) are recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at 
fair value and classified based on the instruments’ maturity dates. 
Changes in the fair value measurements of the derivative 
instruments are reflected as adjustments to accumulated other 
comprehensive income ("AOCI") and/or current earnings.

In millions
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

Derivative Assets

Derivative Liabilities

Balance Sheet Classification

2017

2016 Balance Sheet Classification

2017

2016

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Miscellaneous other assets

Miscellaneous other assets

$

0.5

$ 31.7

liabilities

$ (31.0) $

(2.0)

Accrued payroll and other

—

0.1

—

0.6

Prepaid expenses and other

1.0

current liabilities

2.5 Other long-term liabilities

1.7 Other long-term liabilities

(0.3)

(1.4)

(5.9)

$ (38.6) $

—

(0.1)

(1.6)

(3.7)

$ — $ 134.3

liabilities

$

(6.8) $

(1.9)

Accrued payroll and other

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments

$

$ 36.9

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

Foreign currency

Interest rate

Foreign currency

Interest rate

Equity

Equity

Foreign currency

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

Total derivatives

$

(6.8) $

$ (45.4) $

(1.9)

(5.6)

Fair Value Hedges
The Company enters into fair value hedges to reduce the exposure to changes in the fair values of certain liabilities. The Company's fair 
value hedges convert a portion of its fixed-rate debt into floating-rate debt by use of interest rate swaps. At December 31, 2017, $1.8 billion 
of the Company's outstanding fixed-rate debt was effectively converted. All of the Company’s interest rate swaps meet the shortcut method 
requirements. Accordingly, changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps are exactly offset by changes in the fair value of the 
underlying debt. No ineffectiveness has been recorded to net income related to interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges for the 
year ended December 31, 2017.

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Miscellaneous other assets

—

167.3

10.1

—

$ 167.3

$ 144.4

$ 167.9

$ 181.3

Derivatives in Hedging
Relationships
In millions
Interest rate

Gain (Loss)

Recognized In Earnings

on Hedging Derivative

Gain (Loss)

Recognized In Earnings

on Hedged Items

2017

$ (6.2)

2016

$ (1.8)

2017

$ 6.2

2016

$ 1.8

Cash Flow Hedges
The Company enters into cash flow hedges to reduce the exposure to variability in certain expected future cash flows. The types of cash 
flow hedges the Company enters into include interest rate swaps, foreign currency forwards, and cross currency swaps. The effective 
portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives are reported as a component of AOCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period 
in which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Ineffectiveness of hedges is recognized immediately in earnings. 

Derivatives in Hedging
Relationships
In millions
Foreign currency
Interest rate(1)

Gain (Loss)

Recognized in AOCI

(Effective Portion)

Gain (Loss) Reclassified

From AOCI Into Earnings

(Effective Portion)

2017

$(76.0)

—

$(76.0)

2016

$ 28.6

—

$ 28.6

2017

$(13.7)

(0.5)

$(14.2)

2016

$ 24.6

(0.5)

$ 24.1

Gain (Loss)

Recognized in Earnings

(Amount Excluded from

Effectiveness Testing and

Ineffective Portion)

2017

2016

$ —

$ —

(1)The amount of gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into earnings is recorded in interest expense.

40    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    41

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS 

  Non-Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair 

The following table presents the fair values of derivative instruments included on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 

The Company measures certain financial assets and liabilities at 

fair value on a recurring basis, and certain non-financial assets 

Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

2017 and 2016:

Certain assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a 

and liabilities on a nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as the 

nonrecurring basis; that is, the assets and liabilities are not 

price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a 

measured at fair value on an ongoing basis, but are subject to fair 

liability in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly 

value adjustments in certain circumstances (e.g., when there is 

transaction between market participants on the measurement 

evidence of impairment). For the year ended December 31, 2017, 

date. Fair value disclosures are reflected in a three-level hierarchy, 

the Company recorded fair value adjustments to its long-lived 

maximizing the use of observable inputs and minimizing the use of 

assets, primarily to property and equipment, based on Level 3 

unobservable inputs.

inputs which includes the use of a discounted cash flow valuation 

The valuation hierarchy is based upon the transparency of 

approach. 

inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability on the measurement 

date. The three levels are defined as follows:

Level 1 – inputs to the valuation methodology are quoted 

prices (unadjusted) for an identical asset or liability in an 

active market.

Level 2 – inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted 

prices for a similar asset or liability in an active market or 

model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs are 

observable for substantially the full term of the asset or 

liability.

Level 3 – inputs to the valuation methodology are 

unobservable and significant to the fair value measurement 

of the asset or liability.

Certain of the Company’s derivatives are valued using various 

pricing models or discounted cash flow analyses that incorporate 

observable market parameters, such as interest rate yield curves, 

option volatilities and currency rates, classified as Level 2 within 

the valuation hierarchy. Derivative valuations incorporate credit 

risk adjustments that are necessary to reflect the probability of 

default by the counterparty or the Company. 

  Certain Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair 

Value

December 31, 2017

In millions

Derivative assets

Derivative liabilities

December 31, 2016

In millions

Derivative assets

Derivative liabilities

Level 1*

Level 2

Carrying

Value

$ 167.3

$

0.6

$ 167.9

$ (45.4)

$ (45.4)

Level 1*

Level 2

Carrying

Value

$ 134.3

$ 47.0

$ 181.3

$

(5.6)

$

(5.6)

* 

Level 1 is comprised of derivatives that hedge market driven changes in 

liabilities associated with the Company’s supplemental benefit plans.

The following tables present financial assets and liabilities 

measured at fair value on a recurring basis by the valuation 

hierarchy as defined in the fair value guidance:  

sections.

  Certain Financial Assets and Liabilities not Measured at 

Fair Value

At December 31, 2017, the fair value of the Company’s debt 

obligations was estimated at $31.8 billion, compared to a carrying 

amount of $29.5 billion. The fair value was based on quoted 

market prices, Level 2 within the valuation hierarchy. The carrying 

amount for both cash equivalents and notes receivable 

approximate fair value.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

The Company is exposed to global market risks, including the 

effect of changes in interest rates and foreign currency 

fluctuations. The Company uses foreign currency denominated 

debt and derivative instruments to mitigate the impact of these 

changes. The Company does not hold or issue derivatives for 

trading purposes.

The Company documents its risk management objective and 

strategy for undertaking hedging transactions, as well as all 

relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items. The 
Company’s derivatives that are designated for hedge accounting 

consist mainly of interest rate swaps, foreign currency forwards, 

and cross-currency swaps, and are classified as either fair value, 
cash flow or net investment hedges. Further details are explained 

in the "Fair Value," "Cash Flow" and "Net Investment" hedge 

The Company also enters into certain derivatives that are not 
designated for hedge accounting. The Company has entered into 
equity derivative contracts, including total return swaps, to hedge 
market-driven changes in certain of its supplemental benefit plan 
liabilities. In addition, the Company uses foreign currency forwards 

to mitigate the change in fair value of certain foreign currency 

denominated assets and liabilities. Further details are explained in 

the “Undesignated Derivatives” section.

All derivatives (including those not designated for hedge 

accounting) are recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at 
fair value and classified based on the instruments’ maturity dates. 

Changes in the fair value measurements of the derivative 

instruments are reflected as adjustments to accumulated other 

comprehensive income ("AOCI") and/or current earnings.

Derivative Assets

Derivative Liabilities

In millions
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments

Balance Sheet Classification

Foreign currency

Interest rate

Foreign currency

Interest rate

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Miscellaneous other assets

Miscellaneous other assets

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

Equity

Foreign currency

Equity

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Prepaid expenses and other

current assets

Miscellaneous other assets

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

Total derivatives

2017

2016 Balance Sheet Classification

2017

2016

$

0.5

$ 31.7

liabilities

$ (31.0) $

(2.0)

Accrued payroll and other

—

0.1

—

0.6

$

Prepaid expenses and other

1.0

current liabilities

2.5 Other long-term liabilities

1.7 Other long-term liabilities

$ 36.9

(0.3)

(1.4)

(5.9)
$ (38.6) $

—

(0.1)

(1.6)

(3.7)

$ — $ 134.3

liabilities

$

(6.8) $

(1.9)

Accrued payroll and other

—

167.3

10.1

—

$ 167.3

$ 144.4

$ 167.9

$ 181.3

$

(6.8) $

$ (45.4) $

(1.9)

(5.6)

Fair Value Hedges
The Company enters into fair value hedges to reduce the exposure to changes in the fair values of certain liabilities. The Company's fair 
value hedges convert a portion of its fixed-rate debt into floating-rate debt by use of interest rate swaps. At December 31, 2017, $1.8 billion 
of the Company's outstanding fixed-rate debt was effectively converted. All of the Company’s interest rate swaps meet the shortcut method 
requirements. Accordingly, changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps are exactly offset by changes in the fair value of the 
underlying debt. No ineffectiveness has been recorded to net income related to interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges for the 
year ended December 31, 2017.

Derivatives in Hedging
Relationships
In millions
Interest rate

Gain (Loss)
Recognized In Earnings
on Hedging Derivative

2017
$ (6.2)

2016
$ (1.8)

Gain (Loss)
Recognized In Earnings
on Hedged Items
2017
$ 6.2

2016
$ 1.8

Cash Flow Hedges
The Company enters into cash flow hedges to reduce the exposure to variability in certain expected future cash flows. The types of cash 
flow hedges the Company enters into include interest rate swaps, foreign currency forwards, and cross currency swaps. The effective 
portion of the change in fair value of the derivatives are reported as a component of AOCI and reclassified into earnings in the same period 
in which the hedged transaction affects earnings. Ineffectiveness of hedges is recognized immediately in earnings. 

Derivatives in Hedging
Relationships
In millions
Foreign currency
Interest rate(1)

Gain (Loss)
Recognized in AOCI
(Effective Portion)

Gain (Loss) Reclassified
From AOCI Into Earnings
(Effective Portion)

2017
$(76.0)
—
$(76.0)

2016
$ 28.6
—
$ 28.6

2017
$(13.7)
(0.5)
$(14.2)

2016
$ 24.6
(0.5)
$ 24.1

Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Earnings
(Amount Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing and
Ineffective Portion)

2017

2016

$ —

$ —

(1)The amount of gain (loss) reclassified from AOCI into earnings is recorded in interest expense.

40    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    41

 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
The Company periodically uses interest rate swaps to effectively 
convert a portion of floating-rate debt, including forecasted debt 
issuances, into fixed-rate debt. The agreements are intended to 
reduce the impact of interest rate changes on future interest 
expense.

To protect against the reduction in value of forecasted foreign 

currency cash flows (such as royalties denominated in foreign 
currencies), the Company uses foreign currency forwards to 
hedge a portion of anticipated exposures. When the U.S. dollar 
strengthens against foreign currencies, the decline in value of 
future foreign denominated royalties is offset by gains in the fair 
value of the foreign currency forwards. Conversely, when the U.S. 
dollar weakens, the increase in the value of future foreign 
denominated royalties is offset by losses in the fair value of the 
foreign currency forwards. The hedges cover the next 18 months 
for certain exposures and are denominated in various currencies. 
As of December 31, 2017, the Company had derivatives 
outstanding with an equivalent notional amount of $761.7 million 
that were used to hedge a portion of forecasted foreign currency 
denominated royalties.

The Company recorded after tax adjustments to the cash flow 

hedging component of AOCI in shareholders’ equity. The 
Company recorded a decrease of $39.4 million for the year ended 
December 31, 2017 and an increase of $2.9 million for the year 
ended December 31, 2016. Based on interest rates and foreign 
exchange rates at December 31, 2017, there is $16.5 million in 
after-tax cumulative cash flow hedging losses, which is not 
expected to have a significant effect on earnings over the next 
12 months.

Net Investment Hedges
The Company primarily uses foreign currency denominated debt 
(third party and intercompany) to hedge its investments in certain 
foreign subsidiaries and affiliates. Realized and unrealized 
translation adjustments from these hedges are included in the 
foreign currency translation component of AOCI, as well as the 
offset translation adjustments on the underlying net assets of 
foreign subsidiaries and affiliates. The cumulative translation gains 
or losses will remain in AOCI until the foreign subsidiaries and 
affiliates are liquidated or sold. As of December 31, 2017, $11.9 
billion of third party foreign currency denominated debt and $3.6 
billion of intercompany foreign currency denominated debt were 
designated to hedge investments in certain foreign subsidiaries 
and affiliates.

Derivatives in Hedging
Relationships
In millions
Foreign currency denominated debt
Foreign currency derivatives

Gain (Loss)
Recognized in AOCI
(Effective Portion)

2017
$ (1,599.7)
(8.9)
$ (1,608.6)

2016
654.9
9.9
664.8

$

$

Undesignated Derivatives
The Company enters into certain derivatives that are not 
designated for hedge accounting, therefore the changes in the fair 
value of these derivatives are recognized immediately in earnings 
together with the gain or loss from the hedged balance sheet 
position. As an example, the Company enters into equity 
derivative contracts, including total return swaps, to hedge market-
driven changes in certain of its supplemental benefit plan 
liabilities. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are 
recorded in Selling, general & administrative expenses together 
with the changes in the supplemental benefit plan liabilities. In 
addition, the Company uses foreign currency forwards to mitigate 
the change in fair value of certain foreign currency denominated 
assets and liabilities. The changes in the fair value of these 
derivatives are recognized in Nonoperating (income) expense, net, 

42    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

PER COMMON SHARE INFORMATION
Diluted earnings per common share is calculated using net income 
divided by diluted weighted-average shares. Diluted weighted-
average shares include weighted-average shares outstanding plus 
the dilutive effect of share-based compensation calculated using 
the treasury stock method, of (in millions of shares): 2017–8.1; 
2016–6.8; 2015–5.2. Stock options that were not included in 
diluted weighted-average shares because they would have been 
antidilutive were (in millions of shares): 2017–0.1; 2016–1.2; 
2015–1.0.

CASH AND EQUIVALENTS
The Company considers short-term, highly liquid investments with 
an original maturity of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents.

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
The Company evaluated subsequent events through the date the
financial statements were issued and filed with the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). There were no subsequent
events that required recognition or disclosure.

Property and Equipment

Net property and equipment consisted of:

In millions

December 31, 2017

2016

Land
Buildings and improvements

$

on owned land 

Buildings and improvements

on leased land 

Equipment, signs and

seating

Other
Property and equipment, at

cost 

Accumulated depreciation

and amortization

5,662.2

$ 5,465.0

14,776.9

13,695.2

12,509.2

11,511.9

3,165.7

512.4

3,270.9

500.4

36,626.4

34,443.4

Net property and equipment

$

22,448.3

$ 21,257.6

Depreciation and amortization expense for property and 
equipment was (in millions): 2017–$1,227.5; 2016–$1,390.7; 
2015–$1,438.0.

along with the currency gain or loss from the hedged balance 
sheet position. 

Derivatives Not Designated
for Hedge Accounting
In millions
Foreign currency
Equity

Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Earnings
2016
$ 4.3
26.0
$ 30.3

2017
$ (24.2)
92.7
$ 68.5

Credit Risk
The Company is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of 
non-performance by the counterparties to its hedging instruments. 
The counterparties to these agreements consist of a diverse group 
of financial institutions and market participants. The Company 
continually monitors its positions and the credit ratings of its 
counterparties and adjusts positions as appropriate. The Company 
did not have significant exposure to any individual counterparty at 
December 31, 2017, and has master agreements that contain 
netting arrangements. For financial reporting purposes, the 
Company presents gross derivative balances in the financial 
statements and supplementary data, even for counterparties 
subject to netting arrangements. Some of these agreements also 
require each party to post collateral if credit ratings fall below, or 
aggregate exposures exceed, certain contractual limits. At 
December 31, 2017, the Company was required to post an 
immaterial amount of collateral due to negative fair value of certain 
derivative positions. The Company's counterparties were not 
required to post collateral on any derivative position, other than on 
hedges of certain of the Company’s supplemental benefit plan 
liabilities where the counterparties were required to post collateral 
on their liability positions. 

INCOME TAXES

Income Tax Uncertainties

The Company, like other multi-national companies, is regularly 
audited by federal, state and foreign tax authorities, and tax 
assessments may arise several years after tax returns have been 
filed. Accordingly, tax liabilities are recorded when, in 
management’s judgment, a tax position does not meet the more 
likely than not threshold for recognition. For tax positions that meet 
the more likely than not threshold, a tax liability may still be 
recorded depending on management’s assessment of how the tax 
position will ultimately be settled.

The Company records interest and penalties on unrecognized 

tax benefits in the provision for income taxes.

Accounting for Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income ("GILTI")

The Tax Act requires a U.S. shareholder of a foreign corporation to 
include GILTI in taxable income. The accounting policy of the 
Company is to record any tax on GILTI in the provision for income 
taxes in the year it is incurred.  

(14,178.1)

(13,185.8)

Impairment and other charges (gains), net

Other Operating (Income) Expense, Net

In millions

2017

2016

2015

Gains on sales of restaurant

businesses

Equity in (earnings) losses of

unconsolidated affiliates

Asset dispositions and other

(income) expense, net

Impairment and other charges

(gains), net

Total

$ (295.4) $ (283.4) $ (145.9)

(183.7)

(54.8)

146.8

18.7

72.3

(26.6)

(702.8)

341.6

235.1

$ (1,163.2) $ 75.7

$ 209.4

  Gains on sales of restaurant businesses

The Company’s purchases and sales of businesses with its 

franchisees are aimed at achieving an optimal ownership mix in 

each market. Resulting gains or losses on sales of restaurant 

businesses are recorded in operating income because these 

transactions are a recurring part of our business.

Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated affiliates

Unconsolidated affiliates and partnerships are businesses in which 

the Company actively participates but does not control. The 

Company records equity in (earnings) losses from these entities 

representing McDonald’s share of results. For foreign affiliated 

markets—primarily Japan and China—results are reported after 

interest expense and income taxes. 

  Asset dispositions and other (income) expense, net

Asset dispositions and other (income) expense, net consists of 

gains or losses on excess property and other asset dispositions, 

provisions for restaurant closings and uncollectible receivables, 

asset write-offs due to restaurant reinvestment, and other 

miscellaneous income and expenses.

Impairment and other charges (gains), net includes the losses that 

result from the write down of goodwill and long-lived assets from 

their carrying value to their fair value. Charges associated with 

strategic initiatives, such as refranchising and restructuring 

activities are also included. In addition, as the Company continues 

to make progress towards its long-term global refranchising goals, 

the realized gains/losses from the sale of McDonald's businesses 

in certain markets are reflected in this category. In July 2017, the 

Company completed the sale of its businesses in China and Hong 

Kong, resulting in a gain of approximately $850 million.

Contingencies

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to 

proceedings, lawsuits and other claims primarily related to 

competitors, customers, employees, franchisees, government 

agencies, intellectual property, shareholders and suppliers. The 

Company is required to assess the likelihood of any adverse 

judgments or outcomes to these matters as well as potential 

ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of 

accrual required, if any, for these contingencies is made after 

careful analysis of each matter. The required accrual may change 

in the future due to new developments in each matter or changes 

in approach such as a change in settlement strategy in dealing 

with these matters. The Company does not believe that any such 

matter currently being reviewed will have a material adverse effect 

on its financial condition or results of operations.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    43

 
 
 
 
The Company periodically uses interest rate swaps to effectively 

along with the currency gain or loss from the hedged balance 

sheet position. 

Derivatives Not Designated

for Hedge Accounting

In millions

Foreign currency

Equity

Gain (Loss)

2017

Recognized in Earnings
2016
$ 4.3
26.0
$ 30.3

$ (24.2)

$ 68.5

92.7

Credit Risk

The Company is exposed to credit-related losses in the event of 

non-performance by the counterparties to its hedging instruments. 
The counterparties to these agreements consist of a diverse group 

of financial institutions and market participants. The Company 

continually monitors its positions and the credit ratings of its 

counterparties and adjusts positions as appropriate. The Company 
did not have significant exposure to any individual counterparty at 

December 31, 2017, and has master agreements that contain 

netting arrangements. For financial reporting purposes, the 

Company presents gross derivative balances in the financial 

statements and supplementary data, even for counterparties 

subject to netting arrangements. Some of these agreements also 

require each party to post collateral if credit ratings fall below, or 

aggregate exposures exceed, certain contractual limits. At 

December 31, 2017, the Company was required to post an 

immaterial amount of collateral due to negative fair value of certain 

derivative positions. The Company's counterparties were not 

required to post collateral on any derivative position, other than on 

hedges of certain of the Company’s supplemental benefit plan 

liabilities where the counterparties were required to post collateral 

on their liability positions. 

INCOME TAXES

Income Tax Uncertainties

The Company, like other multi-national companies, is regularly 

assessments may arise several years after tax returns have been 

filed. Accordingly, tax liabilities are recorded when, in 

management’s judgment, a tax position does not meet the more 

likely than not threshold for recognition. For tax positions that meet 

the more likely than not threshold, a tax liability may still be 

recorded depending on management’s assessment of how the tax 

position will ultimately be settled.

The Company records interest and penalties on unrecognized 

tax benefits in the provision for income taxes.

Accounting for Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income ("GILTI")

The Tax Act requires a U.S. shareholder of a foreign corporation to 

include GILTI in taxable income. The accounting policy of the 

Company is to record any tax on GILTI in the provision for income 

taxes in the year it is incurred.  

convert a portion of floating-rate debt, including forecasted debt 

issuances, into fixed-rate debt. The agreements are intended to 

reduce the impact of interest rate changes on future interest 

expense.

To protect against the reduction in value of forecasted foreign 

currency cash flows (such as royalties denominated in foreign 

currencies), the Company uses foreign currency forwards to 

hedge a portion of anticipated exposures. When the U.S. dollar 

strengthens against foreign currencies, the decline in value of 

future foreign denominated royalties is offset by gains in the fair 

value of the foreign currency forwards. Conversely, when the U.S. 

dollar weakens, the increase in the value of future foreign 

denominated royalties is offset by losses in the fair value of the 

foreign currency forwards. The hedges cover the next 18 months 

for certain exposures and are denominated in various currencies. 

As of December 31, 2017, the Company had derivatives 

outstanding with an equivalent notional amount of $761.7 million 

that were used to hedge a portion of forecasted foreign currency 

denominated royalties.

The Company recorded after tax adjustments to the cash flow 

hedging component of AOCI in shareholders’ equity. The 

Company recorded a decrease of $39.4 million for the year ended 

December 31, 2017 and an increase of $2.9 million for the year 

ended December 31, 2016. Based on interest rates and foreign 

exchange rates at December 31, 2017, there is $16.5 million in 

after-tax cumulative cash flow hedging losses, which is not 

expected to have a significant effect on earnings over the next 

12 months.

Net Investment Hedges

The Company primarily uses foreign currency denominated debt 

(third party and intercompany) to hedge its investments in certain 

foreign subsidiaries and affiliates. Realized and unrealized 

translation adjustments from these hedges are included in the 

foreign currency translation component of AOCI, as well as the 

offset translation adjustments on the underlying net assets of 

or losses will remain in AOCI until the foreign subsidiaries and 

affiliates are liquidated or sold. As of December 31, 2017, $11.9 

billion of third party foreign currency denominated debt and $3.6 

billion of intercompany foreign currency denominated debt were 

designated to hedge investments in certain foreign subsidiaries 

and affiliates.

Derivatives in Hedging

Relationships

In millions

Foreign currency denominated debt

$ (1,599.7)

Foreign currency derivatives

Gain (Loss)

Recognized in AOCI

(Effective Portion)

2017

(8.9)

$ (1,608.6)

2016

654.9

9.9

664.8

$

$

Undesignated Derivatives

The Company enters into certain derivatives that are not 

designated for hedge accounting, therefore the changes in the fair 

value of these derivatives are recognized immediately in earnings 

together with the gain or loss from the hedged balance sheet 

position. As an example, the Company enters into equity 

derivative contracts, including total return swaps, to hedge market-

driven changes in certain of its supplemental benefit plan 

liabilities. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are 

recorded in Selling, general & administrative expenses together 

with the changes in the supplemental benefit plan liabilities. In 

addition, the Company uses foreign currency forwards to mitigate 

the change in fair value of certain foreign currency denominated 

assets and liabilities. The changes in the fair value of these 

derivatives are recognized in Nonoperating (income) expense, net, 

42    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

foreign subsidiaries and affiliates. The cumulative translation gains 

audited by federal, state and foreign tax authorities, and tax 

PER COMMON SHARE INFORMATION
Diluted earnings per common share is calculated using net income 
divided by diluted weighted-average shares. Diluted weighted-
average shares include weighted-average shares outstanding plus 
the dilutive effect of share-based compensation calculated using 
the treasury stock method, of (in millions of shares): 2017–8.1; 
2016–6.8; 2015–5.2. Stock options that were not included in 
diluted weighted-average shares because they would have been 
antidilutive were (in millions of shares): 2017–0.1; 2016–1.2; 
2015–1.0.

CASH AND EQUIVALENTS
The Company considers short-term, highly liquid investments with 
an original maturity of 90 days or less to be cash equivalents.

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
The Company evaluated subsequent events through the date the
financial statements were issued and filed with the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). There were no subsequent
events that required recognition or disclosure.

Property and Equipment

Net property and equipment consisted of:

December 31, 2017
5,662.2
$

2016
$ 5,465.0

In millions

Land
Buildings and improvements

on owned land 

Buildings and improvements

on leased land 
Equipment, signs and

seating

Other
Property and equipment, at

cost 

Accumulated depreciation

and amortization

Net property and equipment

$

14,776.9

13,695.2

12,509.2

11,511.9

3,165.7
512.4

3,270.9
500.4

36,626.4

34,443.4

(14,178.1)
22,448.3

(13,185.8)
$ 21,257.6

Depreciation and amortization expense for property and 
equipment was (in millions): 2017–$1,227.5; 2016–$1,390.7; 
2015–$1,438.0.

Other Operating (Income) Expense, Net

In millions

2017

2016

2015

Gains on sales of restaurant

businesses

Equity in (earnings) losses of
unconsolidated affiliates

Asset dispositions and other
(income) expense, net

Impairment and other charges
(gains), net

Total

$ (295.4) $ (283.4) $ (145.9)

(183.7)

(54.8)

146.8

18.7

72.3

(26.6)

(702.8)

341.6

235.1

$ (1,163.2) $ 75.7

$ 209.4

  Gains on sales of restaurant businesses

The Company’s purchases and sales of businesses with its 
franchisees are aimed at achieving an optimal ownership mix in 
each market. Resulting gains or losses on sales of restaurant 
businesses are recorded in operating income because these 
transactions are a recurring part of our business.

Equity in (earnings) losses of unconsolidated affiliates
Unconsolidated affiliates and partnerships are businesses in which 
the Company actively participates but does not control. The 
Company records equity in (earnings) losses from these entities 
representing McDonald’s share of results. For foreign affiliated 
markets—primarily Japan and China—results are reported after 
interest expense and income taxes. 

  Asset dispositions and other (income) expense, net
Asset dispositions and other (income) expense, net consists of 
gains or losses on excess property and other asset dispositions, 
provisions for restaurant closings and uncollectible receivables, 
asset write-offs due to restaurant reinvestment, and other 
miscellaneous income and expenses.

Impairment and other charges (gains), net

Impairment and other charges (gains), net includes the losses that 
result from the write down of goodwill and long-lived assets from 
their carrying value to their fair value. Charges associated with 
strategic initiatives, such as refranchising and restructuring 
activities are also included. In addition, as the Company continues 
to make progress towards its long-term global refranchising goals, 
the realized gains/losses from the sale of McDonald's businesses 
in certain markets are reflected in this category. In July 2017, the 
Company completed the sale of its businesses in China and Hong 
Kong, resulting in a gain of approximately $850 million.

Contingencies

In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to 
proceedings, lawsuits and other claims primarily related to 
competitors, customers, employees, franchisees, government 
agencies, intellectual property, shareholders and suppliers. The 
Company is required to assess the likelihood of any adverse 
judgments or outcomes to these matters as well as potential 
ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of 
accrual required, if any, for these contingencies is made after 
careful analysis of each matter. The required accrual may change 
in the future due to new developments in each matter or changes 
in approach such as a change in settlement strategy in dealing 
with these matters. The Company does not believe that any such 
matter currently being reviewed will have a material adverse effect 
on its financial condition or results of operations.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    43

 
 
 
 
Franchise Arrangements

Leasing Arrangements

Income Taxes

Net deferred tax liabilities consisted of:

Conventional franchise arrangements generally include a lease 
and a license and provide for payment of initial fees, as well as 
continuing rent and royalties to the Company based upon a 
percent of sales with minimum rent payments that parallel the 
Company’s underlying leases and escalations (on properties that 
are leased). Under this arrangement, franchisees are granted the 
right to operate a restaurant using the McDonald’s System and, in 
most cases, the use of a restaurant facility, generally for a period 
of 20 years. These franchisees pay related occupancy costs 
including property taxes, insurance and maintenance. 
Developmental licensees and affiliates operating under license 
agreements pay a royalty to the Company based upon a percent 
of sales, and may pay initial fees.

Revenues from franchised restaurants consisted of:

In millions

Rents
Royalties
Initial fees
Revenues from franchised

restaurants

2017
$ 6,496.3
3,518.7
86.5

2016
$ 6,107.6
3,129.9
89.4

2015
$ 5,860.6
2,980.7
83.4

$10,101.5

$ 9,326.9

$ 8,924.7

Future gross minimum rent payments due to the Company 

under existing franchise arrangements are:

In millions

2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
Total minimum
payments

Owned sites

Leased sites

Total

$

$ 1,420.1
1,389.9
1,353.8
1,306.1
1,253.9
10,841.3

1,473.4
1,423.3
1,352.8
1,271.3
1,187.0
9,488.4

$ 2,893.5
2,813.2
2,706.6
2,577.4
2,440.9
20,329.7

$17,565.1

$ 16,196.2

$33,761.3

At December 31, 2017, net property and equipment under 
franchise arrangements totaled $16.5 billion (including land of $4.8 
billion) after deducting accumulated depreciation and amortization 
of $9.8 billion.

At December 31, 2017, the Company was the lessee at 12,262 
restaurant locations through ground leases (the Company leases 
the land and the Company generally owns the building) and 
through improved leases (the Company leases land and 
buildings). Lease terms for most restaurants, where market 
conditions allow, are generally for 20 years and, in many cases, 
provide for rent escalations and renewal options, with certain 
leases providing purchase options. Escalation terms vary by 
market with examples including fixed-rent escalations, escalations 
based on an inflation index, and fair-value market adjustments. 
The timing of these escalations generally ranges from annually to 
every five years. For most locations, the Company is obligated for 
the related occupancy costs including property taxes, insurance 
and maintenance; however, for franchised sites, the Company 
requires the franchisees to pay these costs. In addition, the 
Company is the lessee under non-restaurant related leases such 
as offices, vehicles and office equipment.

The following table provides detail of rent expense:

In millions
Company-operated

restaurants:

U.S.
Outside the U.S.

Total

Franchised restaurants:
U.S.
Outside the U.S.

Total

Other
Total rent expense

2017

2016

2015

$

37.4
427.2
464.6

$

48.6
613.3
661.9

$

59.2
652.7
711.9

488.6
609.3
1,097.9
82.0
$ 1,644.5

471.2
589.8
1,061.0
91.3
$ 1,814.2

463.7
565.0
1,028.7
98.4
$ 1,839.0

Rent expense included percent rents in excess of minimum 

rents (in millions) as follows–Company-operated restaurants: 
2017–$115.6; 2016–$135.0; 2015–$146.6. Franchised 
restaurants: 2017–$204.9; 2016–$186.4; 2015–$178.8.

Future minimum payments required under existing operating 

leases with initial terms of one year or more are:

In millions
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
Thereafter
Total minimum payments

Restaurant
$ 1,096.8
1,037.0
954.0
867.0
778.7
6,829.1
$11,562.6

Other
$ 55.1
50.0
42.7
36.5
26.8
83.2
$ 294.3

Total
$ 1,151.9
1,087.0
996.7
903.5
805.5
6,912.3
$11,856.9

Income before provision for income taxes, classified by source of 
income, was as follows:

In millions

December 31, 2017

2016

$ 1,211.5

$ 1,459.8

In millions

U.S.
Outside the U.S.
Income before provision for

income taxes

2017

2016

2015

$ 2,242.0

$ 2,059.4

$ 2,597.8

6,331.5

4,806.6

3,957.9

Enacted on December 22, 2017, the Tax Act reduces the U.S. 

federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, requires companies 
to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign 
subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred and creates new 
taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings. At December 31, 2017, 
the Company has not completed the accounting for the tax effects 
of enactment of the Tax Act. However, as described below, the 
Company has made a reasonable estimate of the effects on the 
existing deferred tax balances and the one-time transition tax. For 
these items, a net provisional tax cost of approximately $700 
million is recognized and is included as a component of provision 
for income taxes from continuing operations. 

Provisional amounts 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities: The Company remeasured 

certain U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates 
at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is 
generally 21%. However, the Company is still analyzing certain 
aspects of the Tax Act and refining the calculations, which could 
potentially affect the measurement of these balances or potentially 
give rise to new deferred tax amounts. A provisional amount was 
recorded related to the remeasurement of the deferred tax 
balance, resulting in a provision for income taxes benefit of 
approximately $500 million. 

Foreign tax effects: The one-time transition tax is based on 

the total post-1986 earnings and profits ("E&P") for which the 
Company had previously deferred from U.S. income taxes. A 
provisional amount was recorded for the one-time transition tax 
liability, resulting in a provision for income taxes cost of 
approximately $1.2 billion. The Company has not yet completed 
the calculation of the total post-1986 foreign E&P. Further, the 
transition tax is based in part on the amount of those earnings 
held in cash and other specified assets. This amount may change 
when the calculation of post-1986 foreign E&P and the amounts 
held in cash or other specified assets are finalized. 

The provision for income taxes, classified by the timing and 

location of payment, was as follows:

In millions

U.S. federal
U.S. state
Outside the U.S.

U.S. federal
U.S. state
Outside the U.S.

Current tax provision

Deferred tax provision

2017

2016

2015

$2,030.8

$1,046.6

$1,072.3

169.8

1,217.0

3,417.6

121.3

1,550.2

2,718.1

139.5

816.0

2,027.8

(120.1)

(122.1)

12.8

70.9

(36.4)

14.1

(430.6)

(538.6)

6.8

(3.9)

(4.3)

(1.4)

Provision for income taxes

$3,381.2

$2,179.5

$2,026.4

$ 8,573.5

$ 6,866.0

$ 6,555.7

Total deferred tax liabilities

1,749.7

2,823.5

Property and equipment

Unrealized foreign exchange

gains

Other

Intangible liabilities

Property and equipment

Employee benefit plans

Intangible assets

Deferred foreign tax credits

Operating loss carryforwards

Other

Total deferred tax assets

before valuation allowance

Valuation allowance

Net deferred tax liabilities

Balance sheet presentation:

Deferred income taxes

Other assets-miscellaneous

Liabilities of businesses held for

sale

Net deferred tax liabilities

—

296.2

242.0

(633.8)

(253.1)

(228.8)

(208.6)

(71.1)

(266.0)

630.9

445.2

287.6

(650.2)

(395.0)

(170.7)

(316.8)

(292.7)

(338.6)

(1,661.4)

(2,164.0)

163.2

168.0

$ 251.5

$ 827.5

$ 1,119.4

$ 1,817.1

(867.9)

(804.0)

—

(185.6)

$ 251.5

$ 827.5

At December 31, 2017, the Company had net operating loss 

carryforwards of $0.3 billion, of which $0.2 billion has an indefinite 

carryforward. The remainder will expire at various dates from 2018 

to 2031.

The Company's effective income tax rate has been generally 

lower than the U.S. statutory tax rate primarily because non-U.S. 

income is generally subject to local statutory country tax rates that 

are below the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate and reflect the impact of 

global transfer pricing. Beginning in 2018, the Tax Act reduces the 

U.S. statutory tax rate to 21%.

The statutory U.S. federal income tax rate reconciles to the 

effective income tax rates as follows:

Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate

35.0% 35.0% 35.0%

2017

2016

2015

State income taxes, net of related

federal income tax benefit

Foreign income taxed at different

rates

Transition tax

US net deferred tax liability

remeasurement

Cash repatriation

Other, net

1.2

1.5

1.6

(4.6)

13.7

(6.0)

0.3

(0.2)

(6.5)

(4.9)

—

—

—

1.7

—

—

(2.3)

1.5

Effective income tax rates

39.4% 31.7% 30.9%

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company’s gross 

unrecognized tax benefits totaled $1.2 billion and $924.1 million, 

respectively. After considering the deferred tax accounting impact, 

it is expected that about $700 million of the total as of 

December 31, 2017 would favorably affect the effective tax rate if 

resolved in the Company’s favor.

44    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    45

 
Franchise Arrangements

Leasing Arrangements

Income Taxes

Net deferred tax liabilities consisted of:

$ 8,573.5

$ 6,866.0

$ 6,555.7

Total deferred tax liabilities

Conventional franchise arrangements generally include a lease 

At December 31, 2017, the Company was the lessee at 12,262 

and a license and provide for payment of initial fees, as well as 

restaurant locations through ground leases (the Company leases 

Income before provision for income taxes, classified by source of 
income, was as follows:

continuing rent and royalties to the Company based upon a 

the land and the Company generally owns the building) and 

percent of sales with minimum rent payments that parallel the 

through improved leases (the Company leases land and 

Company’s underlying leases and escalations (on properties that 

buildings). Lease terms for most restaurants, where market 

are leased). Under this arrangement, franchisees are granted the 

conditions allow, are generally for 20 years and, in many cases, 

right to operate a restaurant using the McDonald’s System and, in 

provide for rent escalations and renewal options, with certain 

most cases, the use of a restaurant facility, generally for a period 

leases providing purchase options. Escalation terms vary by 

of 20 years. These franchisees pay related occupancy costs 

market with examples including fixed-rent escalations, escalations 

In millions

U.S.
Outside the U.S.
Income before provision for

income taxes

2017
$ 2,242.0
6,331.5

2016
$ 2,059.4
4,806.6

2015
$ 2,597.8
3,957.9

In millions

Owned sites

Leased sites

Total

Franchised restaurants:

including property taxes, insurance and maintenance. 

Developmental licensees and affiliates operating under license 

agreements pay a royalty to the Company based upon a percent 

of sales, and may pay initial fees.

Revenues from franchised restaurants consisted of:

In millions

Rents

Royalties

Initial fees

2017

2016

2015

$ 6,496.3

$ 6,107.6

$ 5,860.6

3,518.7

3,129.9

2,980.7

86.5

89.4

83.4

Revenues from franchised

restaurants

$10,101.5

$ 9,326.9

$ 8,924.7

Future gross minimum rent payments due to the Company 

under existing franchise arrangements are:

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Thereafter

Total minimum

payments

$ 1,420.1

$

1,473.4

$ 2,893.5

1,389.9

1,353.8

1,306.1

1,253.9

10,841.3

1,423.3

1,352.8

1,271.3

1,187.0

9,488.4

2,813.2

2,706.6

2,577.4

2,440.9

20,329.7

$17,565.1

$ 16,196.2

$33,761.3

At December 31, 2017, net property and equipment under 

franchise arrangements totaled $16.5 billion (including land of $4.8 

billion) after deducting accumulated depreciation and amortization 

of $9.8 billion.

based on an inflation index, and fair-value market adjustments. 

The timing of these escalations generally ranges from annually to 
every five years. For most locations, the Company is obligated for 

the related occupancy costs including property taxes, insurance 

and maintenance; however, for franchised sites, the Company 

requires the franchisees to pay these costs. In addition, the 

Company is the lessee under non-restaurant related leases such 

as offices, vehicles and office equipment.

The following table provides detail of rent expense:

In millions

Company-operated

restaurants:

U.S.

Outside the U.S.

Total

U.S.

Outside the U.S.

Total

Other

Total rent expense

2017

2016

2015

$

37.4

$

48.6

$

427.2

464.6

488.6

609.3

613.3

661.9

471.2

589.8

1,097.9

1,061.0

82.0

91.3

$ 1,644.5

$ 1,814.2

59.2
652.7
711.9

463.7
565.0
1,028.7
98.4
$ 1,839.0

Rent expense included percent rents in excess of minimum 

rents (in millions) as follows–Company-operated restaurants: 

2017–$115.6; 2016–$135.0; 2015–$146.6. Franchised 

restaurants: 2017–$204.9; 2016–$186.4; 2015–$178.8.

Future minimum payments required under existing operating 

leases with initial terms of one year or more are:

In millions

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Thereafter

Restaurant

$ 1,096.8

1,037.0

954.0

867.0

778.7

6,829.1

Other

$ 55.1

50.0

42.7

36.5

26.8

83.2

Total
$ 1,151.9
1,087.0
996.7
903.5
805.5
6,912.3
$11,856.9

Total minimum payments

$11,562.6

$ 294.3

Enacted on December 22, 2017, the Tax Act reduces the U.S. 

federal corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, requires companies 
to pay a one-time transition tax on earnings of certain foreign 
subsidiaries that were previously tax deferred and creates new 
taxes on certain foreign sourced earnings. At December 31, 2017, 
the Company has not completed the accounting for the tax effects 
of enactment of the Tax Act. However, as described below, the 
Company has made a reasonable estimate of the effects on the 
existing deferred tax balances and the one-time transition tax. For 
these items, a net provisional tax cost of approximately $700 
million is recognized and is included as a component of provision 
for income taxes from continuing operations. 

Provisional amounts 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities: The Company remeasured 

certain U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the rates 
at which they are expected to reverse in the future, which is 
generally 21%. However, the Company is still analyzing certain 
aspects of the Tax Act and refining the calculations, which could 
potentially affect the measurement of these balances or potentially 
give rise to new deferred tax amounts. A provisional amount was 
recorded related to the remeasurement of the deferred tax 
balance, resulting in a provision for income taxes benefit of 
approximately $500 million. 

Foreign tax effects: The one-time transition tax is based on 

the total post-1986 earnings and profits ("E&P") for which the 
Company had previously deferred from U.S. income taxes. A 
provisional amount was recorded for the one-time transition tax 
liability, resulting in a provision for income taxes cost of 
approximately $1.2 billion. The Company has not yet completed 
the calculation of the total post-1986 foreign E&P. Further, the 
transition tax is based in part on the amount of those earnings 
held in cash and other specified assets. This amount may change 
when the calculation of post-1986 foreign E&P and the amounts 
held in cash or other specified assets are finalized. 

The provision for income taxes, classified by the timing and 

location of payment, was as follows:

In millions

U.S. federal
U.S. state
Outside the U.S.

Current tax provision

U.S. federal
U.S. state
Outside the U.S.

Deferred tax provision
Provision for income taxes

2017
$2,030.8
169.8
1,217.0
3,417.6
(120.1)
12.8
70.9
(36.4)
$3,381.2

2016
$1,046.6
121.3
1,550.2
2,718.1
(122.1)
14.1
(430.6)
(538.6)
$2,179.5

2015
$1,072.3
139.5
816.0
2,027.8
6.8
(3.9)
(4.3)
(1.4)
$2,026.4

In millions

Property and equipment
Unrealized foreign exchange
gains

Intangible liabilities
Other

Property and equipment
Employee benefit plans
Intangible assets
Deferred foreign tax credits
Operating loss carryforwards
Other

Total deferred tax assets

before valuation allowance

Valuation allowance
Net deferred tax liabilities
Balance sheet presentation:
Deferred income taxes
Other assets-miscellaneous
Liabilities of businesses held for
sale
Net deferred tax liabilities

December 31, 2017
$ 1,211.5

2016
$ 1,459.8

—
296.2
242.0
1,749.7
(633.8)
(253.1)
(228.8)
(208.6)
(71.1)
(266.0)

630.9
445.2
287.6
2,823.5
(650.2)
(395.0)
(170.7)
(316.8)
(292.7)
(338.6)

(1,661.4)
163.2
$ 251.5

(2,164.0)
168.0
$ 827.5

$ 1,119.4
(867.9)

$ 1,817.1
(804.0)

—
$ 251.5

(185.6)
$ 827.5

At December 31, 2017, the Company had net operating loss 
carryforwards of $0.3 billion, of which $0.2 billion has an indefinite 
carryforward. The remainder will expire at various dates from 2018 
to 2031.

The Company's effective income tax rate has been generally 
lower than the U.S. statutory tax rate primarily because non-U.S. 
income is generally subject to local statutory country tax rates that 
are below the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate and reflect the impact of 
global transfer pricing. Beginning in 2018, the Tax Act reduces the 
U.S. statutory tax rate to 21%.

The statutory U.S. federal income tax rate reconciles to the 

effective income tax rates as follows:

Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate
State income taxes, net of related

federal income tax benefit

Foreign income taxed at different

rates

Transition tax

US net deferred tax liability

remeasurement
Cash repatriation
Other, net
Effective income tax rates

2015
2016
2017
35.0% 35.0% 35.0%

1.2

1.5

1.6

(4.6)

13.7

(6.5)

(4.9)

—

—

—
(6.0)
—
0.3
1.7
(0.2)
39.4% 31.7% 30.9%

—
(2.3)
1.5

As of December 31, 2017 and 2016, the Company’s gross 

unrecognized tax benefits totaled $1.2 billion and $924.1 million, 
respectively. After considering the deferred tax accounting impact, 
it is expected that about $700 million of the total as of 
December 31, 2017 would favorably affect the effective tax rate if 
resolved in the Company’s favor.

44    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    45

 
subsidiaries and corporate joint ventures. Although the Company 
has accrued certain amounts, the Company is still evaluating how 
the Tax Act will affect the Company’s accounting position related to 
the indefinite reinvestment of unremitted foreign earnings. During 
the measurement period, the Company may reflect adjustments to 
this provisional amount upon obtaining, preparing, and analyzing 
the necessary information to complete the accounting under ASC 
740.

Employee Benefit Plans

The Company's 401k Plan is maintained for U.S.-based 
employees and includes a 401(k) feature, as well as an employer 
match. The 401(k) feature allows participants to make pre-tax 
contributions that are matched each pay period (with an annual 
true-up) from shares released under the leveraged Employee 
Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") and employer cash contributions. 
All current account balances, future contributions and related 
earnings can be invested in eight investment alternatives as well 
as McDonald’s stock in accordance with each participant’s 
investment elections. Future participant contributions are limited to 
20% investment in McDonald’s stock. Participants may choose to 
make separate investment choices for current account balances 
and future contributions.

The Company also maintains certain nonqualified 

supplemental benefit plans that allow participants to (i) make tax-
deferred contributions and (ii) receive Company-provided 
allocations that cannot be made under the 401k Plan because of 
IRS limitations. The investment alternatives and returns are based 
on certain market-rate investment alternatives under the 401k 
Plan. Total liabilities were $484.3 million at December 31, 2017, 
and $464.9 million at December 31, 2016, and were primarily 
included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance 
sheet.

The Company has entered into derivative contracts to hedge 

market-driven changes in certain of the liabilities. At December 31, 
2017, derivatives with a fair value of $167.3 million indexed to the 
Company's stock and a total return swap with a notional amount of 
$202.8 million indexed to certain market indices were included at 
their fair value in Miscellaneous other assets and Accrued payroll 
and other liabilities, respectively, on the consolidated balance 
sheet. Changes in liabilities for these nonqualified plans and in the 
fair value of the derivatives are recorded primarily in Selling, 
general & administrative expenses. Changes in fair value of the 
derivatives indexed to the Company’s stock are recorded in the 
income statement because the contracts provide the counterparty 
with a choice to settle in cash or shares. 

Total U.S. costs for the 401k Plan, including nonqualified 

benefits and related hedging activities, were (in millions): 2017–
$19.3; 2016–$24.8; 2015–$24.0. Certain subsidiaries outside the 
U.S. also offer profit sharing, stock purchase or other similar 
benefit plans. Total plan costs outside the U.S. were (in millions): 
2017–$43.3; 2016–$46.0; 2015–$53.4.

The total combined liabilities for international retirement plans 

were $44.6 million and $65.6 million at December 31, 2017 and 
2016, respectively. Other post-retirement benefits and post- 
employment benefits were immaterial.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the beginning 

and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits:

In millions

Balance at January 1
Decreases for positions taken in prior years
Increases for positions taken in prior years
Increases for positions related to the current

year

Settlements with taxing authorities
Lapsing of statutes of limitations
Balance at December 31(1)

2017
$ 924.1
(13.7)
143.9

2016
$ 781.2
(37.1)
150.1

140.2
(6.5)
(7.6)

116.6
(17.7)
(69.0)

$ 1,180.4

$ 924.1

(1)  Of this amount, $1,132.3 million and $890.0 million are included in Other 
long-term liabilities for 2017 and 2016, respectively, and $30.8 million and 
$9.0 million are included in Current liabilities - income taxes for 2017 and 
2016, respectively, on the consolidated balance sheet. The remainder is 
included in Deferred income taxes on the consolidated balance sheet.

In 2015, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) issued a 
Revenue Agent Report (“RAR”) that included certain disagreed 
transfer pricing adjustments related to the Company’s U.S. 
Federal income tax returns for 2009 and 2010. Also in 2015, the 
Company filed a protest with the IRS Appeals Office related to 
these disagreed transfer pricing matters. During 2017 the 
Company received a response to its protest, and, as of December 
31, 2017, is awaiting scheduling of an opening conference with 
IRS Appeals. In 2017, the IRS completed its examination of the 
Company’s U.S. Federal income tax returns for 2011 and 2012. 
Although at December 31, 2017 the IRS had not yet issued its 
RAR for these years, when issued it is expected to result in the 
same disagreed transfer pricing matters as the 2009 and 2010 
RAR. Consequently, it is expected that the transfer pricing matters 
for 2011 and 2012 will be addressed along with the 2009 and 2010 
matters as part of the 2009-2010 appeal. The Company is also 
under audit in multiple foreign tax jurisdictions for matters primarily 
related to transfer pricing, and the Company is under audit in 
multiple state tax jurisdictions. It is reasonably possible that the 
total amount of unrecognized tax benefits could decrease up to 
$710 million within the next 12 months, of which up to $20 million 
could favorably affect the effective tax rate. This would be due to 
the possible settlement of the 2009-2012 IRS transfer pricing 
matters, completion of the aforementioned foreign and state tax 
audits and the expiration of the statute of limitations in multiple tax 
jurisdictions.

In addition, it is reasonably possible that, as a result of audit 
progression in both the U.S. and foreign tax audits within the next 
12 months, there may be new information that causes the 
Company to reassess the total amount of unrecognized tax 
benefits recorded. While the Company cannot estimate the impact 
that new information may have on our unrecognized tax benefit 
balance, it believes that the liabilities recorded are appropriate and 
adequate as determined under ASC 740.

The Company operates within multiple tax jurisdictions and is 

subject to audit in these jurisdictions.  With few exceptions, the 
Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or 
non-U.S. income tax examinations for years before 2009. 

The Company had $155.3 million and $117.0 million accrued 

for interest and penalties at December 31, 2017 and 2016, 
respectively. The Company recognized interest and penalties 
related to tax matters of $34.9 million in 2017, $41.7 million in 
2016, and $21.1 million in 2015, which are included in the 
provision for income taxes.

 As a result of the Tax Act, the Company has re-evaluated its 

assertion related to the indefinite reinvestment of unremitted 
foreign earnings and recorded a provisional deferred tax liability 
for temporary differences related to investments in certain foreign 

46    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

Segment and Geographic Information

The Company franchises and operates McDonald’s restaurants in 
the global restaurant industry.  The following reporting segments 
reflect how management reviews and evaluates operating 
performance:

  U.S. - the Company's largest segment.

International Lead Markets - established markets 

including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the U.K. 

U.S.

and related markets.

  High Growth Markets - markets the Company believes 

have relatively higher restaurant expansion and 

franchising potential including China, Italy, Korea, Poland, 

Russia, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands and related 

markets.

Foundational Markets & Corporate - the remaining 

markets in the McDonald's system, most of which 

operate under a largely franchised model. Corporate 

activities are also reported within this segment.

        All intercompany revenues and expenses are eliminated in 
computing revenues and operating income. Corporate general and 
administrative expenses consist of home office support costs in 
areas such as facilities, finance, human resources, information 
technology, legal, marketing, restaurant operations, supply chain 
and training. Corporate assets include corporate cash and 
equivalents, asset portions of financial instruments and home 
office facilities.

Total operating income

$ 9,552.7

$ 7,744.5

$ 7,145.5

U.S.

$ 12,648.6

$ 11,960.6

$ 11,806.1

362.4

88.6

(20.2)

In millions

U.S.

International Lead

Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets &

Corporate

Total revenues

International Lead

Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets &

Corporate

International Lead

Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets &

Corporate

Total assets

U.S.

International Lead

Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets &

Corporate

Total capital

expenditures

U.S.

International Lead

Markets

High Growth Markets

Foundational Markets &

Corporate

Total depreciation and

amortization

2017

2016

2015

$ 8,006.4

$ 8,252.7

$ 8,558.9

7,340.3

5,533.2

7,223.4

6,160.7

7,614.9

6,172.8

1,940.5

2,985.1

3,066.4

$ 22,820.4

$ 24,621.9

$ 25,413.0

$ 4,022.4

$ 3,768.7

$ 3,612.0

3,166.5

2,001.4

2,838.4

1,048.8

2,712.6

841.1

11,844.3

4,480.7

9,112.5

5,208.6

11,136.3

5,248.6

4,830.1

4,742.2

9,747.7

$ 33,803.7

$ 31,023.9

$ 37,938.7

$

861.2

$

586.7

$

533.2

515.3

378.5

635.6

493.2

596.1

540.5

98.7

105.6

144.1

$ 1,853.7

$ 1,821.1

$ 1,813.9

$

524.1

$

510.3

$

515.2

461.1

231.7

146.5

451.6

362.0

460.9

363.9

192.6

215.7

$ 1,363.4

$ 1,516.5

$ 1,555.7

Total long-lived assets, primarily property and equipment, 

were (in millions)–Consolidated: 2017–$27,164.2; 2016– 

$25,200.4; 2015–$27,607.8; U.S. based: 2017–$12,308.7; 2016–

$11,689.7; 2015–$11,940.4.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    47

 
 
 
subsidiaries and corporate joint ventures. Although the Company 
has accrued certain amounts, the Company is still evaluating how 
the Tax Act will affect the Company’s accounting position related to 
the indefinite reinvestment of unremitted foreign earnings. During 
the measurement period, the Company may reflect adjustments to 
this provisional amount upon obtaining, preparing, and analyzing 
the necessary information to complete the accounting under ASC 

740.

Employee Benefit Plans

The Company's 401k Plan is maintained for U.S.-based 

employees and includes a 401(k) feature, as well as an employer 

match. The 401(k) feature allows participants to make pre-tax 

contributions that are matched each pay period (with an annual 

true-up) from shares released under the leveraged Employee 

Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") and employer cash contributions. 
All current account balances, future contributions and related 
earnings can be invested in eight investment alternatives as well 

as McDonald’s stock in accordance with each participant’s 

investment elections. Future participant contributions are limited to 
20% investment in McDonald’s stock. Participants may choose to 

make separate investment choices for current account balances 

and future contributions.

The Company also maintains certain nonqualified 

supplemental benefit plans that allow participants to (i) make tax-

deferred contributions and (ii) receive Company-provided 

allocations that cannot be made under the 401k Plan because of 
IRS limitations. The investment alternatives and returns are based 

on certain market-rate investment alternatives under the 401k 

Plan. Total liabilities were $484.3 million at December 31, 2017, 

and $464.9 million at December 31, 2016, and were primarily 

included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance 

sheet.

The Company has entered into derivative contracts to hedge 

market-driven changes in certain of the liabilities. At December 31, 
2017, derivatives with a fair value of $167.3 million indexed to the 
Company's stock and a total return swap with a notional amount of 
$202.8 million indexed to certain market indices were included at 
their fair value in Miscellaneous other assets and Accrued payroll 

and other liabilities, respectively, on the consolidated balance 

sheet. Changes in liabilities for these nonqualified plans and in the 

fair value of the derivatives are recorded primarily in Selling, 

general & administrative expenses. Changes in fair value of the 

derivatives indexed to the Company’s stock are recorded in the 

income statement because the contracts provide the counterparty 

with a choice to settle in cash or shares. 

Total U.S. costs for the 401k Plan, including nonqualified 

benefits and related hedging activities, were (in millions): 2017–

$19.3; 2016–$24.8; 2015–$24.0. Certain subsidiaries outside the 

U.S. also offer profit sharing, stock purchase or other similar 

benefit plans. Total plan costs outside the U.S. were (in millions): 

2017–$43.3; 2016–$46.0; 2015–$53.4.

The total combined liabilities for international retirement plans 

were $44.6 million and $65.6 million at December 31, 2017 and 

2016, respectively. Other post-retirement benefits and post- 

employment benefits were immaterial.

The following table presents a reconciliation of the beginning 

and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits:

In millions

Balance at January 1

Decreases for positions taken in prior years

Increases for positions taken in prior years

Increases for positions related to the current

year

Settlements with taxing authorities

Lapsing of statutes of limitations

Balance at December 31(1)

2017

2016

$ 924.1

$ 781.2

(13.7)

143.9

(37.1)

150.1

140.2

116.6

(6.5)

(7.6)

(17.7)

(69.0)

$ 1,180.4

$ 924.1

(1)  Of this amount, $1,132.3 million and $890.0 million are included in Other 

long-term liabilities for 2017 and 2016, respectively, and $30.8 million and 

$9.0 million are included in Current liabilities - income taxes for 2017 and 

2016, respectively, on the consolidated balance sheet. The remainder is 

included in Deferred income taxes on the consolidated balance sheet.

In 2015, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) issued a 

Revenue Agent Report (“RAR”) that included certain disagreed 

transfer pricing adjustments related to the Company’s U.S. 

Federal income tax returns for 2009 and 2010. Also in 2015, the 

Company filed a protest with the IRS Appeals Office related to 

these disagreed transfer pricing matters. During 2017 the 

Company received a response to its protest, and, as of December 

31, 2017, is awaiting scheduling of an opening conference with 

IRS Appeals. In 2017, the IRS completed its examination of the 

Company’s U.S. Federal income tax returns for 2011 and 2012. 

Although at December 31, 2017 the IRS had not yet issued its 

RAR for these years, when issued it is expected to result in the 

same disagreed transfer pricing matters as the 2009 and 2010 

RAR. Consequently, it is expected that the transfer pricing matters 

for 2011 and 2012 will be addressed along with the 2009 and 2010 

matters as part of the 2009-2010 appeal. The Company is also 

under audit in multiple foreign tax jurisdictions for matters primarily 

related to transfer pricing, and the Company is under audit in 

multiple state tax jurisdictions. It is reasonably possible that the 

total amount of unrecognized tax benefits could decrease up to 

$710 million within the next 12 months, of which up to $20 million 

could favorably affect the effective tax rate. This would be due to 

the possible settlement of the 2009-2012 IRS transfer pricing 

matters, completion of the aforementioned foreign and state tax 

audits and the expiration of the statute of limitations in multiple tax 

jurisdictions.

In addition, it is reasonably possible that, as a result of audit 

progression in both the U.S. and foreign tax audits within the next 

12 months, there may be new information that causes the 

Company to reassess the total amount of unrecognized tax 

benefits recorded. While the Company cannot estimate the impact 

that new information may have on our unrecognized tax benefit 

balance, it believes that the liabilities recorded are appropriate and 

adequate as determined under ASC 740.

The Company operates within multiple tax jurisdictions and is 

subject to audit in these jurisdictions.  With few exceptions, the 

Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or 

non-U.S. income tax examinations for years before 2009. 

The Company had $155.3 million and $117.0 million accrued 

for interest and penalties at December 31, 2017 and 2016, 

respectively. The Company recognized interest and penalties 

related to tax matters of $34.9 million in 2017, $41.7 million in 

2016, and $21.1 million in 2015, which are included in the 

provision for income taxes.

 As a result of the Tax Act, the Company has re-evaluated its 

assertion related to the indefinite reinvestment of unremitted 

foreign earnings and recorded a provisional deferred tax liability 

for temporary differences related to investments in certain foreign 

46    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

Segment and Geographic Information

The Company franchises and operates McDonald’s restaurants in 
the global restaurant industry.  The following reporting segments 
reflect how management reviews and evaluates operating 
performance:

  U.S. - the Company's largest segment.

International Lead Markets - established markets 
including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the U.K. 
and related markets.

  High Growth Markets - markets the Company believes 

have relatively higher restaurant expansion and 
franchising potential including China, Italy, Korea, Poland, 
Russia, Spain, Switzerland, the Netherlands and related 
markets.

Foundational Markets & Corporate - the remaining 
markets in the McDonald's system, most of which 
operate under a largely franchised model. Corporate 
activities are also reported within this segment.

        All intercompany revenues and expenses are eliminated in 
computing revenues and operating income. Corporate general and 
administrative expenses consist of home office support costs in 
areas such as facilities, finance, human resources, information 
technology, legal, marketing, restaurant operations, supply chain 
and training. Corporate assets include corporate cash and 
equivalents, asset portions of financial instruments and home 
office facilities.

In millions

U.S.
International Lead
Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets &

Corporate
Total revenues

U.S.
International Lead
Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets &

Corporate
Total operating income

U.S.
International Lead
Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets &

Corporate
Total assets

U.S.
International Lead
Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets &

Corporate
Total capital

expenditures

U.S.
International Lead
Markets
High Growth Markets
Foundational Markets &

Corporate
Total depreciation and

amortization

2017
$ 8,006.4

2016
$ 8,252.7

2015
$ 8,558.9

7,340.3
5,533.2

7,223.4
6,160.7

7,614.9
6,172.8

1,940.5
$ 22,820.4
$ 4,022.4

2,985.1
$ 24,621.9
$ 3,768.7

3,066.4
$ 25,413.0
$ 3,612.0

3,166.5
2,001.4

2,838.4
1,048.8

2,712.6
841.1

362.4
$ 9,552.7
$ 12,648.6

88.6
$ 7,744.5
$ 11,960.6

(20.2)
$ 7,145.5
$ 11,806.1

11,844.3
4,480.7

9,112.5
5,208.6

11,136.3
5,248.6

4,830.1
$ 33,803.7
861.2
$

4,742.2
$ 31,023.9
586.7
$

9,747.7
$ 37,938.7
533.2
$

515.3
378.5

635.6
493.2

596.1
540.5

98.7

105.6

144.1

$ 1,853.7
524.1
$

$ 1,821.1
510.3
$

$ 1,813.9
515.2
$

461.1
231.7

146.5

451.6
362.0

460.9
363.9

192.6

215.7

$ 1,363.4

$ 1,516.5

$ 1,555.7

Total long-lived assets, primarily property and equipment, 

were (in millions)–Consolidated: 2017–$27,164.2; 2016– 
$25,200.4; 2015–$27,607.8; U.S. based: 2017–$12,308.7; 2016–
$11,689.7; 2015–$11,940.4.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    47

 
 
 
Debt Financing

Share-based Compensation

LINE OF CREDIT AGREEMENTS
At December 31, 2017, the Company had a $2.5 billion line of credit agreement expiring in December 2019 with fees of 0.070% per annum 
on the total commitment, which remained unused. Fees and interest rates on this line are based on the Company’s long-term credit rating 
assigned by Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. In addition, the Company's subsidiaries had unused lines of credit that were primarily 
uncommitted, short-term and denominated in various currencies at local market rates of interest.

The weighted-average interest rate of short-term borrowings was 2.5% at December 31, 2017 (based on $268.0 million of foreign 
currency bank line borrowings) and 2.2% at December 31, 2016 (based on $192.0 million of foreign currency bank line borrowings and 
$799.8 million of commercial paper).

DEBT OBLIGATIONS
The Company has incurred debt obligations principally through public and private offerings and bank loans. There are no provisions in the 
Company’s debt obligations that would accelerate repayment of debt as a result of a change in credit ratings or a material adverse change 
in the Company’s business. Certain of the Company’s debt obligations contain cross-acceleration provisions, and restrictions on Company 
and subsidiary mortgages and the long-term debt of certain subsidiaries. Under certain agreements, the Company has the option to retire 
debt prior to maturity, either at par or at a premium over par. The Company has no current plans to retire a significant amount of its debt 
prior to maturity.

The following table summarizes the Company’s debt obligations (interest rates and debt amounts reflected in the table include the 

effects of interest rate swaps).

In millions of U.S. Dollars

Maturity dates

Fixed
Floating

Total U.S. Dollars

Fixed
Floating

Total Euro
Total British Pounds Sterling - Fixed
Total Canadian Dollar - Fixed
Total Japanese Yen - Fixed

Fixed
Floating

Total other currencies(2)

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred 
debt costs(3)
Fair value adjustments(4)

Deferred debt costs

Total debt obligations

(1)  Weighted-average effective rate, computed on a semi-annual basis.

(2)  Primarily consists of Swiss Francs and Korean Won.

2018-2047

2018-2029
2020-2054
2021-2025
2030

2018-2056

Interest rates(1)
December 31

2017
4.0%
4.3

2016
4.0%
3.4

1.6
0.0

5.3
3.1
2.9
0.8
2.3

1.7
0.3

5.3
—
2.9
0.5
2.2

Amounts outstanding
December 31

2017
$15,533.3
1,750.0
17,283.3
8,446.6
1,323.4
9,770.0
1,008.9
793.8
110.9
451.5
244.7

696.2

2016
$13,889.7
3,249.8
17,139.5
6,127.5
1,170.9
7,298.4
921.3
—
106.9
416.9
182.7

599.6

29,663.1

26,065.7

(6.2)

(120.5)

—

(110.0)

$29,536.4

$25,955.7

(3)  Aggregate maturities for 2017 debt balances, before fair value adjustments and deferred debt costs, are as follows (in millions): 2018–$2,024.6; 2019–$2,121.2; 
2020–$2,432.3; 2021–$1,717.0; 2022–$2,311.2; Thereafter–$19,056.8. These amounts include a reclassification of short-term obligations totaling $2.0 billion to 
long-term obligations as they are supported by a long-term line of credit agreement expiring in December 2019.

(4)  The carrying value of underlying items in fair value hedges, in this case debt obligations, are adjusted for fair value changes to the extent they are attributable to 
the risk designated as being hedged. The related hedging instrument is also recorded at fair value in prepaid expenses and other current assets, miscellaneous 
other assets or other long-term liabilities.

The Company maintains a share-based compensation plan which authorizes the granting of various equity-based incentives including stock 
options and restricted stock units ("RSUs") to employees and nonemployee directors. The number of shares of common stock reserved for 
issuance under the plans was 51.5 million at December 31, 2017, including 31.0 million available for future grants.

STOCK OPTIONS
Stock options to purchase common stock are granted with an exercise price equal to the closing market price of the Company’s stock on the 
date of grant. Substantially all of the options become exercisable in four equal installments, beginning a year from the date of the grant, and 
generally expire 10 years from the grant date. 

Intrinsic value for stock options is defined as the difference between the current market value of the Company’s stock and the exercise 

price. During 2017, 2016 and 2015, the total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $353.6 million, $184.9 million and $202.9 million, 
respectively. Cash received from stock options exercised during 2017 was $456.8 million and the tax benefit realized from stock options 
exercised totaled $111.0 million. The Company uses treasury shares purchased under the Company’s share repurchase program to satisfy 
share-based exercises.

A summary of the status of the Company’s stock option grants as of December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, and changes during the years 

then ended, is presented in the following table:

Options

Outstanding at beginning of year
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited/expired
Outstanding at end of year
Exercisable at end of year

Shares in

millions

21.5

4.0

(5.6)

(1.0)

18.9

11.3

Weighted-

average

exercise

price

$ 92.25

128.74

81.77

118.38

$101.55

$ 90.73

Weighted-

average

remaining

contractual

life in years

2017

Aggregate

intrinsic

value in

millions

6.3

4.9

$1,331.4

$ 917.8

Shares in

millions

Shares in

millions

2016

Weighted-

average

exercise

price

$ 84.76

117.10

75.30

106.50

$ 92.25

21.9

4.3

(4.0)

(0.7)

21.5

13.4

2015

Weighted-

average

exercise

price

$ 77.99

97.33

62.59

96.76

$ 84.76

23.4

4.3

(5.1)

(0.7)

21.9

13.4

RSUs
RSUs generally vest 100% on the third anniversary of the grant and are payable in either shares of McDonald’s common stock or cash, at 
the Company’s discretion. The fair value of RSUs granted is equal to the market price of the Company’s stock at date of grant less the 
present value of expected dividends over the vesting period. Separately, Company executives have been awarded RSUs that vest based on 
Company performance. For performance-based RSUs granted beginning in 2016, the Company includes a relative TSR modifier to 
determine the number of shares earned at the end of the performance period. The fair value of performance-based RSUs that include the 
TSR modifier is determined using a Monte Carlo valuation model. 

A summary of the Company’s RSU activity during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 is presented in the following 

table:

RSUs

Nonvested at beginning of year
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Nonvested at end of year

Shares in

millions

Shares in

millions

Shares in

millions

2017

Weighted-

average

grant date

fair value

$ 94.13

123.98

87.18

117.24

$107.34

1.9

0.6

(0.7)

(0.2)

1.6

2016

Weighted-

average

grant date

fair value

$ 83.50

109.86

79.54

88.45

$ 94.13

2.4

0.7

(0.8)

(0.4)

1.9

2015

Weighted-

average

grant date

fair value

$ 83.49

87.03

88.78

85.82

$ 83.50

2.2

0.9

(0.5)

(0.2)

2.4

The total fair value of RSUs vested during 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $87.6 million, $99.3 million and $49.4 million, respectively. The tax 

benefit realized from RSUs vested during 2017 was $23.9 million. 

48    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    49

 
 
 
 
 
Debt Financing

LINE OF CREDIT AGREEMENTS

$799.8 million of commercial paper).

DEBT OBLIGATIONS

prior to maturity.

effects of interest rate swaps).

Fixed

Floating

Fixed

Floating

Fixed

Floating

Total U.S. Dollars

Total Euro

Total British Pounds Sterling - Fixed

Total Canadian Dollar - Fixed

Total Japanese Yen - Fixed

Total other currencies(2)

debt costs(3)

Fair value adjustments(4)

Deferred debt costs

Total debt obligations

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred 

In millions of U.S. Dollars

Maturity dates

At December 31, 2017, the Company had a $2.5 billion line of credit agreement expiring in December 2019 with fees of 0.070% per annum 

on the total commitment, which remained unused. Fees and interest rates on this line are based on the Company’s long-term credit rating 

assigned by Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s. In addition, the Company's subsidiaries had unused lines of credit that were primarily 

uncommitted, short-term and denominated in various currencies at local market rates of interest.

The weighted-average interest rate of short-term borrowings was 2.5% at December 31, 2017 (based on $268.0 million of foreign 

currency bank line borrowings) and 2.2% at December 31, 2016 (based on $192.0 million of foreign currency bank line borrowings and 

The Company has incurred debt obligations principally through public and private offerings and bank loans. There are no provisions in the 

Company’s debt obligations that would accelerate repayment of debt as a result of a change in credit ratings or a material adverse change 
in the Company’s business. Certain of the Company’s debt obligations contain cross-acceleration provisions, and restrictions on Company 

and subsidiary mortgages and the long-term debt of certain subsidiaries. Under certain agreements, the Company has the option to retire 

debt prior to maturity, either at par or at a premium over par. The Company has no current plans to retire a significant amount of its debt 

The following table summarizes the Company’s debt obligations (interest rates and debt amounts reflected in the table include the 

Interest rates(1)

December 31

2017

4.0%

4.3

2016

4.0%

3.4

1.6

0.0

5.3

3.1

2.9

0.8

2.3

1.7

0.3

5.3

—

2.9

0.5

2.2

2018-2047

2018-2029

2020-2054

2021-2025

2030

2018-2056

Amounts outstanding
December 31

2017

$15,533.3

1,750.0

17,283.3

8,446.6

1,323.4

9,770.0

1,008.9

793.8

110.9

451.5

244.7

696.2

2016
$13,889.7
3,249.8
17,139.5
6,127.5
1,170.9
7,298.4
921.3
—
106.9
416.9
182.7

599.6

29,663.1

26,065.7

(6.2)

(120.5)

—

(110.0)

$29,536.4

$25,955.7

(1)  Weighted-average effective rate, computed on a semi-annual basis.

(2)  Primarily consists of Swiss Francs and Korean Won.

(3)  Aggregate maturities for 2017 debt balances, before fair value adjustments and deferred debt costs, are as follows (in millions): 2018–$2,024.6; 2019–$2,121.2; 

2020–$2,432.3; 2021–$1,717.0; 2022–$2,311.2; Thereafter–$19,056.8. These amounts include a reclassification of short-term obligations totaling $2.0 billion to 

long-term obligations as they are supported by a long-term line of credit agreement expiring in December 2019.

(4)  The carrying value of underlying items in fair value hedges, in this case debt obligations, are adjusted for fair value changes to the extent they are attributable to 

the risk designated as being hedged. The related hedging instrument is also recorded at fair value in prepaid expenses and other current assets, miscellaneous 

other assets or other long-term liabilities.

Share-based Compensation

The Company maintains a share-based compensation plan which authorizes the granting of various equity-based incentives including stock 
options and restricted stock units ("RSUs") to employees and nonemployee directors. The number of shares of common stock reserved for 
issuance under the plans was 51.5 million at December 31, 2017, including 31.0 million available for future grants.

STOCK OPTIONS
Stock options to purchase common stock are granted with an exercise price equal to the closing market price of the Company’s stock on the 
date of grant. Substantially all of the options become exercisable in four equal installments, beginning a year from the date of the grant, and 
generally expire 10 years from the grant date. 

Intrinsic value for stock options is defined as the difference between the current market value of the Company’s stock and the exercise 
price. During 2017, 2016 and 2015, the total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $353.6 million, $184.9 million and $202.9 million, 
respectively. Cash received from stock options exercised during 2017 was $456.8 million and the tax benefit realized from stock options 
exercised totaled $111.0 million. The Company uses treasury shares purchased under the Company’s share repurchase program to satisfy 
share-based exercises.

A summary of the status of the Company’s stock option grants as of December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, and changes during the years 

then ended, is presented in the following table:

Options

Outstanding at beginning of year
Granted
Exercised
Forfeited/expired
Outstanding at end of year
Exercisable at end of year

Shares in
millions

21.5
4.0
(5.6)
(1.0)
18.9
11.3

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

$ 92.25
128.74
81.77
118.38
$101.55
$ 90.73

Weighted-
average
remaining
contractual
life in years

2017

Aggregate
intrinsic
value in
millions

6.3
4.9

$1,331.4
$ 917.8

2016

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

$ 84.76
117.10
75.30
106.50
$ 92.25

2015

Weighted-
average
exercise
price

$ 77.99
97.33
62.59
96.76
$ 84.76

Shares in
millions

23.4
4.3
(5.1)
(0.7)
21.9
13.4

Shares in
millions

21.9
4.3
(4.0)
(0.7)
21.5
13.4

RSUs
RSUs generally vest 100% on the third anniversary of the grant and are payable in either shares of McDonald’s common stock or cash, at 
the Company’s discretion. The fair value of RSUs granted is equal to the market price of the Company’s stock at date of grant less the 
present value of expected dividends over the vesting period. Separately, Company executives have been awarded RSUs that vest based on 
Company performance. For performance-based RSUs granted beginning in 2016, the Company includes a relative TSR modifier to 
determine the number of shares earned at the end of the performance period. The fair value of performance-based RSUs that include the 
TSR modifier is determined using a Monte Carlo valuation model. 

A summary of the Company’s RSU activity during the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 is presented in the following 

table:

RSUs

Nonvested at beginning of year
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Nonvested at end of year

2017
Weighted-
average
grant date
fair value

$ 94.13
123.98
87.18
117.24
$107.34

Shares in
millions

1.9
0.6
(0.7)
(0.2)
1.6

Shares in
millions

2.4
0.7
(0.8)
(0.4)
1.9

2016
Weighted-
average
grant date
fair value
$ 83.50
109.86
79.54
88.45
$ 94.13

2015
Weighted-
average
grant date
fair value
$ 83.49
87.03
88.78
85.82
$ 83.50

Shares in
millions

2.2
0.9
(0.5)
(0.2)
2.4

The total fair value of RSUs vested during 2017, 2016 and 2015 was $87.6 million, $99.3 million and $49.4 million, respectively. The tax 

benefit realized from RSUs vested during 2017 was $23.9 million. 

48    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    49

 
 
 
 
 
Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

In millions, except per share data

2017

2016

2017

Quarters ended
December 31

Quarters ended
September 30  
2016  

Quarters ended
June 30

Quarters ended
March 31

2017

2016

2017

2016

Revenues
Sales by Company-operated
restaurants
Revenues from franchised

restaurants
Total revenues

Company-operated margin
Franchised margin
Operating income
Net income
Earnings per common

share—basic

Earnings per common

share—diluted

Dividends declared per

common share

Weighted-average
common shares—basic
Weighted-average
common shares—diluted

Market price per common

share:

High
Low
Close

$ 2,673.1

$3,652.8

$ 3,064.3   

$ 3,972.1   

$3,569.6

$3,916.6

$ 3,411.9

$3,753.5

2,667.1
5,340.2
463.0
2,202.5
2,144.2
$ 698.7

2,376.1
6,028.9
616.9
1,941.3
1,969.0
$1,193.4

$

$

$

0.88

0.87

$

$

1.45

1.44

— $

—

2,690.3   
5,754.6   
584.5   
2,233.0   
3,079.4   
$ 1,883.7   

2,452.0   
6,424.1   
732.6   
2,014.4   
2,137.3   
$ 1,275.4   

$

$

$

2.34   

2.32   

$

$

1.52   

1.50   

1.95

(1) $

1.83 (1)

2,480.1
6,049.7
666.3
2,042.1
2,295.1
$1,395.1

2,348.4
6,265.0
668.5
1,917.5
1,857.9
$1,092.9

$

$

$

1.72

1.70

0.94

$

$

$

1.27

1.25

0.89

2,264.0
5,675.9
595.5
1,833.9
2,034.0
$ 1,214.8

2,150.4
5,903.9
578.2
1,735.3
1,780.3
$1,124.8

$

$

$

1.48

1.47

0.94

$

$

$

1.27

1.25

0.89

794.3

823.7

805.3   

841.4   

811.6

864.0

818.8

888.9

803.0

829.7

813.5   

847.7   

819.2

871.2

825.2

896.3

$ 175.78
155.80
172.12

$ 124.00
110.33
121.72

$ 161.72   
151.77   
156.68   

$ 128.60   
113.96   
115.36   

$ 155.46
128.65
153.16

$ 131.96
116.08
120.34

$ 130.19
118.18
129.61

$ 126.96
112.71
125.68

(1) Includes a $0.94 and $0.89 per share dividend declared and paid in third quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively, and a $1.01 and $0.94 per share dividend declared 

in the third quarter and paid in fourth quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Management’s Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The financial statements were prepared by management, which is responsible for their integrity and objectivity and for establishing and 
maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The 
Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

I. 

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the 

assets of the Company;

II.  provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in 

accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made 

only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and

III.  provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the 

Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

There are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any internal control, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or 
overriding of controls. Accordingly, even effective internal controls can provide only reasonable assurances with respect to financial 
statement preparation. Further, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of internal controls may vary over time.

Management assessed the design and effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017. In 
making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013 Framework).

Based on management’s assessment using those criteria, as of December 31, 2017, management believes that the Company’s internal 
control over financial reporting is effective.

Ernst & Young, LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the financial statements of the Company for the fiscal years 
ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 and the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017. Their 
reports are presented on the following pages. The independent registered public accountants and internal auditors advise management of 
the results of their audits, and make recommendations to improve the system of internal controls. Management evaluates the audit 
recommendations and takes appropriate action.

McDONALD’S CORPORATION

February 23, 2018 

50    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    51

 
 
 
Quarterly Results (Unaudited)

In millions, except per share data

2017

2016

2017

2016  

2017

2016

2017

2016

Quarters ended

December 31

Quarters ended

September 30  

Quarters ended

June 30

Quarters ended
March 31

$ 2,673.1

$3,652.8

$ 3,064.3   

$ 3,972.1   

$3,569.6

$3,916.6

$ 3,411.9

$3,753.5

2,667.1

5,340.2

463.0

2,202.5

2,144.2

2,376.1

6,028.9

616.9

1,941.3

1,969.0

2,690.3   

5,754.6   

584.5   

2,233.0   

3,079.4   

2,452.0   

6,424.1   

732.6   

2,014.4   

2,137.3   

2,480.1

6,049.7

666.3

2,042.1

2,295.1

2,348.4

6,265.0

668.5

1,917.5

1,857.9

$ 698.7

$1,193.4

$ 1,883.7   

$ 1,275.4   

$1,395.1

$1,092.9

$ 1,214.8

2,264.0

5,675.9

595.5

1,833.9

2,034.0

2,150.4
5,903.9
578.2
1,735.3
1,780.3
$1,124.8

$

$

$

0.88

0.87

$

$

1.45

1.44

2.34   

1.52   

2.32   

1.50   

$

$

— $

—

1.95

(1) $

1.83 (1)

$

$

$

$

$

$

1.72

1.70

0.94

$

$

$

1.27

1.25

0.89

$

$

$

1.48

1.47

0.94

$

$

$

1.27

1.25

0.89

794.3

823.7

805.3   

841.4   

811.6

864.0

818.8

888.9

803.0

829.7

813.5   

847.7   

819.2

871.2

825.2

896.3

$ 175.78

$ 124.00

$ 161.72   

$ 128.60   

$ 155.46

$ 131.96

$ 130.19

155.80

172.12

110.33

121.72

151.77   

156.68   

113.96   

115.36   

128.65

153.16

116.08

120.34

118.18

129.61

$ 126.96
112.71
125.68

(1) Includes a $0.94 and $0.89 per share dividend declared and paid in third quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively, and a $1.01 and $0.94 per share dividend declared 

in the third quarter and paid in fourth quarter of 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Revenues

restaurants

Sales by Company-operated

Revenues from franchised

restaurants

Total revenues

Company-operated margin

Franchised margin

Operating income

Net income

Earnings per common

share—basic

Earnings per common

share—diluted

Dividends declared per

common share

Weighted-average

common shares—basic

Weighted-average

common shares—diluted

Market price per common

share:

High

Low

Close

Management’s Assessment of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The financial statements were prepared by management, which is responsible for their integrity and objectivity and for establishing and 
maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The 
Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

I. 

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the 
assets of the Company;

II.  provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in 

accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made 
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and

III.  provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the 

Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

There are inherent limitations in the effectiveness of any internal control, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or 
overriding of controls. Accordingly, even effective internal controls can provide only reasonable assurances with respect to financial 
statement preparation. Further, because of changes in conditions, the effectiveness of internal controls may vary over time.

Management assessed the design and effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017. In 
making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission (“COSO”) in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013 Framework).

Based on management’s assessment using those criteria, as of December 31, 2017, management believes that the Company’s internal 
control over financial reporting is effective.

Ernst & Young, LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, has audited the financial statements of the Company for the fiscal years 
ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015 and the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017. Their 
reports are presented on the following pages. The independent registered public accountants and internal auditors advise management of 
the results of their audits, and make recommendations to improve the system of internal controls. Management evaluates the audit 
recommendations and takes appropriate action.

McDONALD’S CORPORATION

February 23, 2018 

50    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    51

 
 
 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of McDonald’s Corporation

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of McDonald’s Corporation

Opinion on the Financial Statements

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of McDonald’s Corporation (the Company) as of December 31, 2017 and 
2016, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three 
years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In 
our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 
31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, 
in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the 
Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated 
Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated 
February 23, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 
Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be 
independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the 
Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our 
audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or 
fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the 
amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant 
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits 
provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1964.

Chicago, Illinois
February 23, 2018 

We have audited McDonald’s Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established 
in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 
framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, McDonald’s Corporation (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective 
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the 
consolidated balance sheets of McDonald’s Corporation as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of 
income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, 
and the related notes and our report dated February 23, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the 
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Assessment of Internal Control Over 
Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our 
audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in 
accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and 
the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. 

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, 
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other 
procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of 
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting 
principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of 
records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide 
reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with 
generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with 
authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection 
of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any 
evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, 
or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Chicago, Illinois
February 23, 2018 

52    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    53

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of McDonald’s Corporation

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of McDonald’s Corporation

Opinion on the Financial Statements

Opinion on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of McDonald’s Corporation (the Company) as of December 31, 2017 and 
2016, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three 
years in the period ended December 31, 2017, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). In 
our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 
31, 2017 and 2016, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, 

in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the 

Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated 

Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 framework) and our report dated 

We have audited McDonald’s Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on criteria established 
in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (2013 
framework) (the COSO criteria). In our opinion, McDonald’s Corporation (the Company) maintained, in all material respects, effective 
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2017, based on the COSO criteria.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the 
consolidated balance sheets of McDonald’s Corporation as of December 31, 2017 and 2016, and the related consolidated statements of 
income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2017, 
and the related notes and our report dated February 23, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

February 23, 2018 expressed an unqualified opinion thereon.

Basis for Opinion

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the 

Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be 

independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the 

Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 

obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our 

audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or 

fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the 

amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant 

estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits 

provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1964.

Chicago, Illinois

February 23, 2018 

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the 
effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting included in the accompanying Management’s Assessment of Internal Control Over 
Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our 
audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in 
accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and 
the PCAOB.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to 
obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. 

Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, 
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other 
procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of 
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting 
principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of 
records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide 
reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with 
generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with 
authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection 
of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any 
evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, 
or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Chicago, Illinois
February 23, 2018 

52    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    53

 
ITEM 9. Changes in and Disagreements With
Accountants on Accounting and Financial
Disclosure

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT
Management’s Report and the Report of Independent Registered 
Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial 
Reporting are set forth in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

None.

ITEM 9A. Controls and Procedures

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS
An evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the 
participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief 
Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), 
over the effectiveness of the design and operation of the 
Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of 
December 31, 2017. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO 
concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures 
were effective as of such date to ensure that information required 
to be disclosed in the reports that it files or submits under the 
Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported 
within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms.

INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, 
confirm that there was no change in the Company’s internal 
control over financial reporting during the quarter 
ended December 31, 2017 that has materially affected, or is 
reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal 
control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B. Other Information

None.

PART III

ITEM 10. Directors, Executive Officers and
Corporate Governance

Information is incorporated herein by reference from the 
Company’s definitive proxy statement, which will be filed no later 
than 120 days after December 31, 2017. We will post any 
amendments to or any waivers for directors and executive officers 
from provisions of the Company's Standards of Business Conduct 
or Code of Conduct for the Board of Directors on the Company’s 
website at www.aboutmcdonalds.com.

Information regarding all of the Company’s executive officers 

is included in Part I, page 10 of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions, and Director Independence

Services

ITEM 14. Principal Accounting Fees and

Incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive 
proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 120 days after 
December 31, 2017.

Incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive 

proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 120 days after 

December 31, 2017.

PART IV

ITEM 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

Consolidated financial statements filed as part of this report are listed under Part II, Item 8, pages 30 through 49 of this Form 10-K.

No schedules are required because either the required information is not present or is not present in amounts sufficient to require

submission of the schedule, or because the information required is included in the consolidated financial statements or the notes

a.

(1) All financial statements

(2) Financial statement schedules

thereto.

b.

Exhibits

The exhibits listed in the accompanying index are filed as part of this report.

McDonald’s Corporation Exhibit Index (Item 15)

ITEM 11. Executive Compensation

Exhibit Number

Description

Incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive 
proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 120 days after 
December 31, 2017.

ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder
Matters

The following table summarizes information about the Company’s equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2017. All outstanding 
awards relate to the Company’s common stock. Shares issued under all of the following plans may be from the Company’s treasury, newly 
issued or both.

Equity compensation plan information

Plan category

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

Total

Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights

Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights

Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column (a))

(a)

20,487,833 (1)

—

20,487,833   

(b)

$ 102.01

—
$ 102.01

(c)

31,022,097

—
31,022,097

(1) 

Includes 5,066,092 stock options granted under the McDonald’s Corporation 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan and 13,801,744 stock options and 1,619,997 
restricted stock units granted under the McDonald's Corporation 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan.

(10)

Material Contracts

Additional matters are incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 

120 days after December 31, 2017.

54    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    55

(3)

(a) Restated Certificate of Incorporation, effective as of June 14, 2012, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 3(a) 

of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2012.

(b) By-Laws, as amended and restated with effect as of October 26, 2015, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 

3(b) of Form 8-K (File No. 001-05231), filed October 28, 2015.

(4)

Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including Indentures:*

(a) Senior Debt Securities Indenture, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(a) of Form S-3 Registration 

Statement (File No. 333-14141), filed October 15, 1996.

(i)

(ii)

(i)

(ii)

6 3/8% Debentures due 2028. Supplemental Indenture No. 1, dated January 8, 1998, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit (4)(a) of Form 8-K (File No. 001-05231), filed January 13, 1998.

Medium-Term Notes, Series F, Due from 1 Year to 60 Years from Date of Issue. Supplemental Indenture No. 

4, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(c) of Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 

333-59145), filed July 15, 1998.

(iii)

Medium-Term Notes, Series I, Due from 1 Year to 60 Years from Date of Issue. Supplemental Indenture No. 8, 

incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(c) of Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 

333-139431), filed December 15, 2006.

(iv)

Medium-Term Notes, Due from One Year to 60 Years from Date of Issue. Supplemental Indenture No. 9, 

incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(c) of Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 

333-162182), filed September 28, 2009.

(b) Subordinated Debt Securities Indenture, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(b) of Form S-3 Registration 

Statement (File No. 333-14141), filed October 15, 1996.

(a) Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan, amended and restated effective as of May 26, 2016, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit 10(a)(i) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.**

(b) McDonald’s Deferred Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2017, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 

10(b) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year ended December 31, 2016.**

(c) McDonald’s Corporation Supplemental Profit Sharing and Savings Plan, effective as of September 1, 2001, 

incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year ended 

December 31, 2001.**

First Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Supplemental Profit Sharing and Savings Plan, effective as 

of January 1, 2002, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(i) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), 

for the year ended December 31, 2002.**

Second Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Supplemental Profit Sharing and Savings Plan, effective 

January 1, 2005, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(ii) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for 

the year ended December 31, 2004.**

 
 
ITEM 9. Changes in and Disagreements With

Accountants on Accounting and Financial

Disclosure

None.

ITEM 9A. Controls and Procedures

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS

An evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the 

participation of the Company’s management, including the Chief 

Executive Officer ("CEO") and Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), 

over the effectiveness of the design and operation of the 

Company’s disclosure controls and procedures as of 

December 31, 2017. Based on that evaluation, the CEO and CFO 

concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures 

were effective as of such date to ensure that information required 

to be disclosed in the reports that it files or submits under the 

Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported 

within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms.

INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

The Company’s management, including the CEO and CFO, 

confirm that there was no change in the Company’s internal 

control over financial reporting during the quarter 

ended December 31, 2017 that has materially affected, or is 

reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal 

control over financial reporting.

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT

Management’s Report and the Report of Independent Registered 

Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control Over Financial 

Reporting are set forth in Part II, Item 8 of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 9B. Other Information

None.

PART III

ITEM 10. Directors, Executive Officers and

Corporate Governance

Information is incorporated herein by reference from the 

Company’s definitive proxy statement, which will be filed no later 

than 120 days after December 31, 2017. We will post any 

amendments to or any waivers for directors and executive officers 
from provisions of the Company's Standards of Business Conduct 
or Code of Conduct for the Board of Directors on the Company’s 

website at www.aboutmcdonalds.com.

Information regarding all of the Company’s executive officers 

is included in Part I, page 10 of this Form 10-K.

ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related
Transactions, and Director Independence

ITEM 14. Principal Accounting Fees and
Services

Incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive 
proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 120 days after 
December 31, 2017.

Incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive 
proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 120 days after 
December 31, 2017.

PART IV

ITEM 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

a.

(1) All financial statements

Consolidated financial statements filed as part of this report are listed under Part II, Item 8, pages 30 through 49 of this Form 10-K.

(2) Financial statement schedules

No schedules are required because either the required information is not present or is not present in amounts sufficient to require
submission of the schedule, or because the information required is included in the consolidated financial statements or the notes
thereto.

b.

Exhibits

The exhibits listed in the accompanying index are filed as part of this report.

McDonald’s Corporation Exhibit Index (Item 15)

ITEM 11. Executive Compensation

Exhibit Number

Description

Incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive 

proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 120 days after 

December 31, 2017.

(3)

(a) Restated Certificate of Incorporation, effective as of June 14, 2012, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 3(a) 

of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2012.

(b) By-Laws, as amended and restated with effect as of October 26, 2015, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 

3(b) of Form 8-K (File No. 001-05231), filed October 28, 2015.

ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Shareholder

(4)

Instruments defining the rights of security holders, including Indentures:*

The following table summarizes information about the Company’s equity compensation plans as of December 31, 2017. All outstanding 

awards relate to the Company’s common stock. Shares issued under all of the following plans may be from the Company’s treasury, newly 

Plan category

Total

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

Number of securities

to be issued upon

exercise of

outstanding options,

warrants and rights

20,487,833 (1)

(a)

—

Weighted-average

exercise price of

outstanding options,

warrants and rights

$ 102.01

(b)

—

20,487,833   

$ 102.01

Number of securities
remaining available for
future issuance under
equity compensation plans
(excluding securities
reflected in column (a))

(c)

31,022,097

—
31,022,097

(1) 

Includes 5,066,092 stock options granted under the McDonald’s Corporation 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan and 13,801,744 stock options and 1,619,997 

restricted stock units granted under the McDonald's Corporation 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan.

Additional matters are incorporated herein by reference from the Company’s definitive proxy statement, which will be filed no later than 

120 days after December 31, 2017.

(a) Senior Debt Securities Indenture, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(a) of Form S-3 Registration 

Statement (File No. 333-14141), filed October 15, 1996.

(i)

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

6 3/8% Debentures due 2028. Supplemental Indenture No. 1, dated January 8, 1998, incorporated herein by 
reference from Exhibit (4)(a) of Form 8-K (File No. 001-05231), filed January 13, 1998.

Medium-Term Notes, Series F, Due from 1 Year to 60 Years from Date of Issue. Supplemental Indenture No. 
4, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(c) of Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 
333-59145), filed July 15, 1998.

Medium-Term Notes, Series I, Due from 1 Year to 60 Years from Date of Issue. Supplemental Indenture No. 8, 
incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(c) of Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 
333-139431), filed December 15, 2006.

Medium-Term Notes, Due from One Year to 60 Years from Date of Issue. Supplemental Indenture No. 9, 
incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(c) of Form S-3 Registration Statement (File No. 
333-162182), filed September 28, 2009.

(b) Subordinated Debt Securities Indenture, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit (4)(b) of Form S-3 Registration 

Statement (File No. 333-14141), filed October 15, 1996.

(10)

Material Contracts

(a) Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan, amended and restated effective as of May 26, 2016, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit 10(a)(i) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.**

(b) McDonald’s Deferred Compensation Plan, effective January 1, 2017, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 

10(b) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year ended December 31, 2016.**

(c) McDonald’s Corporation Supplemental Profit Sharing and Savings Plan, effective as of September 1, 2001, 
incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year ended 
December 31, 2001.**

(i)

(ii)

First Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Supplemental Profit Sharing and Savings Plan, effective as 
of January 1, 2002, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(i) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), 
for the year ended December 31, 2002.**

Second Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Supplemental Profit Sharing and Savings Plan, effective 
January 1, 2005, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(c)(ii) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for 
the year ended December 31, 2004.**

Matters

issued or both.

Equity compensation plan information

54    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    55

 
 
(101.INS)

XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are 

embedded within the Inline XBRL document.

(101.SCH)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

(101.CAL)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

(101.DEF)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

(101.LAB)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

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XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

* Other instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant, and all of its subsidiaries for which consolidated

financial statements are required to be filed and which are not required to be registered with the Commission, are not included herein

as the securities authorized under these instruments, individually, do not exceed 10% of the total assets of the registrant and its

subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. An agreement to furnish a copy of any such instruments to the Commission upon request has

been filed with the Commission.

** Denotes compensatory plan.

ITEM 16. Form 10-K Summary

None.

(d) McDonald’s Corporation Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, effective July 1, 2008, 

incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(h) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 
30, 2009.**

(i)

(ii)

First Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership 
Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(h)(i) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year 
ended December 31, 2008.**

Second Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership 
Plan as amended, effective February 9, 2011, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(h)(ii) of Form 
10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year ended December 31, 2010.**

(e) McDonald's Corporation 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, effective June 1, 2012, incorporated herein by 
reference from Exhibit 10(h) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended September 30, 2012.**

(f) McDonald’s Corporation 2009 Cash Incentive Plan, effective as of May 27, 2009, incorporated herein by reference 

from Exhibit 10(j) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2009.**

(g) McDonald's Corporation Target Incentive Plan, effective January 1, 2013, incorporated herein by reference from 

Exhibit 10(j) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2013.**

(h) McDonald's Corporation Cash Performance Unit Plan, effective February 13, 2013, incorporated herein by reference 

from Exhibit 10(k) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2013.**

(i)

(j)

Form of Executive Stock Option Grant Agreement in connection with the Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus 
Stock Ownership Plan, as amended, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(j) of Form 10-K (File No. 
001-05231), for the year ended December 31, 2011.**

Form of Executive Stock Option Award Agreement in connection with the 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, 
incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(n) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 
31, 2013.**

(k) McDonald’s Corporation Severance Plan, as Amended and Restated, effective September 30, 2015, incorporated 

herein by reference from Exhibit 10(o) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended September 30, 
2015.**

(i)

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

First Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective June 1, 2016, incorporated herein 
by reference from Exhibit 10(l)(i) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.**

Second Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective June 1, 2016, incorporated 
herein by reference from Exhibit 10(l)(ii) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 
2016.**

Third Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective as of July 15, 2016, incorporated 
herein by reference from Exhibit 10(l)(iii) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 
2016.**

Fourth Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective as of July 1, 2017, incorporated 
herein by reference from Exhibit 10(k)(iv) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended 
September 30, 2017.**

(l)

Form of 2014 Executive Stock Option Award Agreement in connection with the 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, 
incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(z) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 
31, 2014.**

(m) Form of 2015 Executive Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement in connection with the 2012 
Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(aa) of Form 10-Q (File No. 
001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2015.**

(n) Offer Letter between Christopher Kempczinski and the Company, dated September 23, 2015, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit 10(u) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.**

(o) Form of Executive Confidentiality, Intellectual Property and Restrictive Covenant Agreement, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit 10(o) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2017.**

(p) Offer Letter between Silvia Lagnado and the Company, dated June 8, 2015, incorporated herein by reference from 

Exhibit 10(p) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2017.**

Computation of Ratios.

Subsidiaries of the Registrant.

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Power of Attorney.

Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer.

Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer.

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 by the Chief Executive Officer, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the 
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 by the Chief Financial Officer, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the 
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

(12)

(21)

(23)

(24)

(31.1)

(31.2)

(32.1)

(32.2)

56    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    57

 
(d) McDonald’s Corporation Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, effective July 1, 2008, 

incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(h) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 

(101.INS)

XBRL Instance Document - the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are 
embedded within the Inline XBRL document.

30, 2009.**

(i)

(ii)

First Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership 

Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(h)(i) of Form 10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year 

ended December 31, 2008.**

Second Amendment to the McDonald’s Corporation Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus Stock Ownership 

Plan as amended, effective February 9, 2011, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(h)(ii) of Form 

10-K (File No. 001-05231), for the year ended December 31, 2010.**

(e) McDonald's Corporation 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, effective June 1, 2012, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit 10(h) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended September 30, 2012.**

(f) McDonald’s Corporation 2009 Cash Incentive Plan, effective as of May 27, 2009, incorporated herein by reference 

from Exhibit 10(j) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2009.**

(g) McDonald's Corporation Target Incentive Plan, effective January 1, 2013, incorporated herein by reference from 

Exhibit 10(j) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2013.**

(h) McDonald's Corporation Cash Performance Unit Plan, effective February 13, 2013, incorporated herein by reference 

from Exhibit 10(k) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2013.**

(i)

Form of Executive Stock Option Grant Agreement in connection with the Amended and Restated 2001 Omnibus 

Stock Ownership Plan, as amended, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(j) of Form 10-K (File No. 

001-05231), for the year ended December 31, 2011.**

(j)

Form of Executive Stock Option Award Agreement in connection with the 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, 

incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(n) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 

(k) McDonald’s Corporation Severance Plan, as Amended and Restated, effective September 30, 2015, incorporated 

herein by reference from Exhibit 10(o) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended September 30, 

First Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective June 1, 2016, incorporated herein 

by reference from Exhibit 10(l)(i) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.**

Second Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective June 1, 2016, incorporated 

herein by reference from Exhibit 10(l)(ii) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 

Third Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective as of July 15, 2016, incorporated 

herein by reference from Exhibit 10(l)(iii) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 

(iv)

Fourth Amendment to the McDonald's Corporation Severance Plan, effective as of July 1, 2017, incorporated 

herein by reference from Exhibit 10(k)(iv) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended 

September 30, 2017.**

(l)

Form of 2014 Executive Stock Option Award Agreement in connection with the 2012 Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, 

incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(z) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 

(m) Form of 2015 Executive Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement in connection with the 2012 

Omnibus Stock Ownership Plan, incorporated herein by reference from Exhibit 10(aa) of Form 10-Q (File No. 

001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2015.**

(n) Offer Letter between Christopher Kempczinski and the Company, dated September 23, 2015, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit 10(u) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2016.**

(o) Form of Executive Confidentiality, Intellectual Property and Restrictive Covenant Agreement, incorporated herein by 

reference from Exhibit 10(o) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended March 31, 2017.**

(p) Offer Letter between Silvia Lagnado and the Company, dated June 8, 2015, incorporated herein by reference from 

Exhibit 10(p) of Form 10-Q (File No. 001-05231), for the quarter ended June 30, 2017.**

31, 2013.**

2015.**

(i)

(ii)

(iii)

2016.**

2016.**

31, 2014.**

(12)

(21)

(23)

(24)

(31.1)

(31.2)

(32.1)

Computation of Ratios.

Subsidiaries of the Registrant.

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

Power of Attorney.

Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer.

Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

56    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 by the Chief Executive Officer, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the 

(32.2)

Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 by the Chief Financial Officer, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the 

(101.SCH)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.

(101.CAL)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.

(101.DEF)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.

(101.LAB)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.

(101.PRE)

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

* Other instruments defining the rights of holders of long-term debt of the registrant, and all of its subsidiaries for which consolidated

financial statements are required to be filed and which are not required to be registered with the Commission, are not included herein
as the securities authorized under these instruments, individually, do not exceed 10% of the total assets of the registrant and its
subsidiaries on a consolidated basis. An agreement to furnish a copy of any such instruments to the Commission upon request has
been filed with the Commission.

** Denotes compensatory plan.

ITEM 16. Form 10-K Summary

None.

McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report    57

 
By

By

By

By

By

Signature, Title

/s/ John J. Mulligan

John J. Mulligan
Director

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan
Corporate Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)

/s/ Sheila A. Penrose

Sheila A. Penrose
Director

/s/ John W. Rogers, Jr.

John W. Rogers, Jr.
Director

/s/ Miles D. White

Miles D. White

Director

Exhibit 12.  Computation of Ratios

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
Dollars in millions

Earnings available for fixed charges

Income before provision for income taxes

Noncontrolling interest expense in operating results

of majority-owned subsidiaries less equity in

undistributed operating results of less than

50%-owned affiliates

Income tax provision (benefit) of 50%-owned

affiliates included in income from continuing

operations before provision for income taxes

Portion of rent charges (after reduction for rental

income from subleased properties) considered

to be representative of interest factors*

Interest expense, amortization of debt discount and

issuance costs, and depreciation of capitalized

interest*

Fixed charges
Portion of rent charges (after reduction for rental

income from subleased properties) considered

to be representative of interest factors*

Interest expense, amortization of debt discount

and issuance costs*

Capitalized interest*

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

$ 8,573.5

$ 6,866.0

$ 6,555.7

$ 7,372.0

$8,204.5

5.3

12.5

6.3

9.0

(36.5)

3.3

(0.1)

23.8

244.8

342.6

365.1

374.6

374.6

7.3

3.7

938.3

904.8

660.4

596.1

548.9

$ 9,725.4

$ 8,129.2

$ 7,592.2

$ 8,348.9

$9,160.8

$ 244.8

$ 342.6

$ 365.1

$ 374.6

$ 374.6

888.2

7.1

643.7

9.4

579.8

14.8

532.1

15.6

$ 1,174.1

$ 1,237.9

$ 1,018.2

$ 969.2

$ 922.3

6.57

7.46

8.61

9.93

924.0

5.3

8.28

* 

Includes amounts of the Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries, and one-half of the amounts of 50%-owned affiliates. The Company records interest 

expense on unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes. This interest is not included in the computation of fixed charges. 

Return on Average Assets
Dollars in millions

Operating income
Average assets(1)
Return on average assets

Years ended December 31, 2017

$ 9,552.7

$32,978.0

2016

$ 7,744.5

$33,686.2

2015

$ 7,145.5

$34,137.6

29.0%

23.0%

20.9%

(1)  Represents the average of the month-end balances of total assets for the past 13 months. 

Fixed-Rate Debt as a Percent of Total Debt(1)(2)
Dollars in millions
Total debt obligations
Fair value adjustments
Deferred debt costs

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt
costs

Fixed-rate debt
Fixed-rate debt as a percent of total debt

Years ended December 31, 2017

$29,536.4

$25,955.7

$24,122.1

2016

—

110.0

2015

(1.8)

106.0

6.2

120.5

$29,663.1

$26,345.0

$26,065.7

$21,462.3

$24,226.3

$19,611.3

89%

82%

81%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

(2) 

Includes the effect of interest rate swaps.

Signatures

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly 
caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the 
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

McDonald’s Corporation
(Registrant)

By

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan
Corporate Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer

February 23, 2018

Date

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act 
of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following 
persons on behalf of the registrant and in their capacities 
indicated below on the 23rd day of February, 2018:

By

By

By

By

By

By

By

By

Signature, Title

/s/ Lloyd H. Dean

Lloyd H. Dean

Director

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook

Stephen J. Easterbrook

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

(Principal Executive Officer)

/s/ Robert A. Eckert

Robert A. Eckert

Director

/s/ Margaret H. Georgiadis

Margaret H. Georgiadis

Director

/s/ Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Chairman of the Board and Director

/s/ Catherine Hoovel

Catherine Hoovel

Corporate Vice President – Chief Accounting Officer

(Principal Accounting Officer)

/s/ Jeanne P. Jackson

Jeanne P. Jackson
Director

/s/ Richard H. Lenny

Richard H. Lenny
Director

58    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)

By

By

By

By

By

Signature, Title

/s/ John J. Mulligan

John J. Mulligan

Director

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan

/s/ Sheila A. Penrose

Sheila A. Penrose

Director

/s/ John W. Rogers, Jr.

John W. Rogers, Jr.

Director

/s/ Miles D. White

Miles D. White

Director

Exhibit 12.  Computation of Ratios

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
Dollars in millions

Earnings available for fixed charges

Income before provision for income taxes

Noncontrolling interest expense in operating results

of majority-owned subsidiaries less equity in
undistributed operating results of less than
50%-owned affiliates

Income tax provision (benefit) of 50%-owned

affiliates included in income from continuing
operations before provision for income taxes

Portion of rent charges (after reduction for rental
income from subleased properties) considered
to be representative of interest factors*

Interest expense, amortization of debt discount and
issuance costs, and depreciation of capitalized
interest*

Fixed charges
Portion of rent charges (after reduction for rental
income from subleased properties) considered
to be representative of interest factors*

Interest expense, amortization of debt discount

and issuance costs*

Capitalized interest*

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

$ 8,573.5

$ 6,866.0

$ 6,555.7

$ 7,372.0

$ 8,204.5

5.3

12.5

(36.5)

3.3

7.3

3.7

6.3

9.0

(0.1)

23.8

244.8

342.6

365.1

374.6

374.6

938.3
$ 9,725.4

904.8
$ 8,129.2

660.4
$ 7,592.2

596.1
$ 8,348.9

548.9
$ 9,160.8

$ 244.8

$ 342.6

$ 365.1

$ 374.6

$ 374.6

924.0
5.3
$ 1,174.1
8.28

888.2
7.1
$ 1,237.9
6.57

643.7
9.4
$ 1,018.2
7.46

579.8
14.8
$ 969.2
8.61

532.1
15.6
$ 922.3
9.93

* 

Includes amounts of the Company and its majority-owned subsidiaries, and one-half of the amounts of 50%-owned affiliates. The Company records interest 
expense on unrecognized tax benefits in the provision for income taxes. This interest is not included in the computation of fixed charges. 

Return on Average Assets
Dollars in millions

Operating income
Average assets(1)
Return on average assets

Years ended December 31, 2017
$ 9,552.7

$32,978.0

2016
$ 7,744.5

$33,686.2

2015
$ 7,145.5

$ 34,137.6

29.0%

23.0%

20.9%

(1)  Represents the average of the month-end balances of total assets for the past 13 months. 

Fixed-Rate Debt as a Percent of Total Debt(1)(2)
Dollars in millions
Total debt obligations
Fair value adjustments
Deferred debt costs

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt
costs

Fixed-rate debt
Fixed-rate debt as a percent of total debt

Years ended December 31, 2017
$29,536.4
6.2
120.5

$29,663.1

$26,345.0

2016
$25,955.7
—
110.0

$26,065.7

$21,462.3

2015
$ 24,122.1
(1.8)
106.0

$ 24,226.3

$ 19,611.3

89%

82%

81%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

(2) 

Includes the effect of interest rate swaps.

Signatures

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the 

Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly 

caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the 

undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

McDonald’s Corporation

(Registrant)

Corporate Executive Vice President and

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan

Chief Financial Officer

February 23, 2018

Date

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act 

of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following 

persons on behalf of the registrant and in their capacities 

indicated below on the 23rd day of February, 2018:

Signature, Title

/s/ Lloyd H. Dean

Lloyd H. Dean

Director

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook

Stephen J. Easterbrook

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

(Principal Executive Officer)

/s/ Robert A. Eckert

Robert A. Eckert

Director

/s/ Margaret H. Georgiadis

Margaret H. Georgiadis

Director

/s/ Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Chairman of the Board and Director

/s/ Catherine Hoovel

Catherine Hoovel

Corporate Vice President – Chief Accounting Officer

(Principal Accounting Officer)

/s/ Jeanne P. Jackson

Jeanne P. Jackson

Director

/s/ Richard H. Lenny

Richard H. Lenny

Director

By

By

By

By

By

By

By

By

By

58    McDonald's Corporation 2017 Annual Report

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign Currency-Denominated Debt as a Percent of Total Debt(1)
Dollars in millions
Total debt obligations
Fair value adjustments

Years ended December 31, 2017
$29,536.4
6.2

Deferred debt costs

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt
costs

Foreign currency-denominated debt
Foreign currency-denominated debt as a percent of total debt

2016
$25,955.7
—

110.0

$26,065.7

$ 8,926.2

2015
$ 24,122.1
(1.8)

106.0

$ 24,226.3

$ 7,016.1

120.5

$29,663.1

$12,379.8

42%

34%

29%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

Total Debt as a Percent of Total Capitalization(1)(2)
Dollars in millions
Total debt obligations
Fair value adjustments

Deferred debt costs
Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt
costs

Total capitalization
Total debt as a percent of total capitalization

Years ended December 31, 2017
$29,536.4
6.2

120.5

$29,663.1

$26,395.1

2016
$25,955.7
—

110.0

$26,065.7

$23,861.4

2015
$ 24,122.1
(1.8)

106.0

$ 24,226.3

$ 31,314.2

112%

109%

77%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

(2)  Total capitalization represents debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt costs, and total shareholders' equity.

Cash Provided by Operations as a Percent of Total Debt(1)
Dollars in millions
Total debt obligations
Fair value adjustments

Years ended December 31, 2017
$29,536.4
6.2

Deferred debt costs

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt
costs

Cash provided by operations
Cash provided by operations as a percent of total debt

2016
$25,955.7
—

110.0

$26,065.7

$ 6,059.6

2015
$ 24,122.1
(1.8)

106.0

$ 24,226.3

$ 6,539.1

120.5

$29,663.1

$ 5,551.2

19%

23%

27%

Reconciliation of Returns on Incremental Invested Capital

ROIIC is a measure reviewed by management over one-year and three-year time periods to evaluate the overall profitability of our markets, 
the effectiveness of capital deployed and the future allocation of capital. This measure is calculated using operating income and constant 
foreign exchange rates to exclude the impact of foreign currency translation. The numerator is the Company’s incremental operating income 
plus depreciation and amortization from the base period.

The denominator is the weighted-average cash used for investing activities during the applicable one-or three-year period. The 

weighted-average cash used for investing activities is based on a weighting applied on a quarterly basis. These weightings are used to 
reflect the estimated contribution of each quarter’s investing activities to incremental operating income. For example, fourth quarter 2017 
investing activities are weighted less because the assets purchased have only recently been deployed and would have generated little 
incremental operating income (12.5% of fourth quarter 2017 investing activities are included in the one-year and three-year calculations). In 
contrast, fourth quarter 2016 is heavily weighted because the assets purchased were deployed more than 12 months ago, and therefore 
have a full-year impact on 2017 operating income, with little or no impact to the base period (87.5% and 100.0% of fourth quarter 2016 
investing activities are included in the one-year and three-year calculations, respectively). Cash used for investing activities can vary 
significantly by quarter, resulting in a weighted-average that may be higher or lower than the simple average of the periods presented. 
Management believes that weighting cash used for investing activities provides a more accurate reflection of the relationship between its 
investments and returns than a simple average.

The reconciliations to the most comparable measurements, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., for 

the numerator and denominator of the one-year and three-year ROIIC are as follows:

One-year ROIIC calculation (dollars in millions):

Three-year ROIIC calculation (dollars in millions):

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

Years ended December 31,

2017

2014

Increase/

(decrease)

NUMERATOR:
Operating income

Depreciation and amortization
Currency translation(1)
Change in operating income plus depreciation and

1,363.4

amortization (at constant foreign exchange rates)

1,516.5

(153.1)

(56.9)

$1,598.2

NUMERATOR:

Operating income

Currency translation(1)

$ 9,552.7

$7,744.5

$1,808.2

$ 9,552.7

$7,949.2

$ 1,603.5

Depreciation and amortization

1,363.4

1,644.5

DENOMINATOR:

Weighted-average cash used for 

investing activities(2)

Currency translation(1)

Weighted-average cash used for investing activities

(at constant foreign exchange rates)

Weighted-average cash used for investing activities

(at constant foreign exchange rates)

One-year ROIIC(3)

Three-year ROIIC(3)

(1)  Represents the effect of foreign currency translation by translating results at an average exchange rate for the periods measured.

(2)  Represents one-year and three-year, respectively, weighted-average cash used for investing activities, determined by applying the weightings below to the cash 

(provided by) used for investing activities for each quarter in the two-year and four-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

Change in operating income plus depreciation and

amortization (at constant foreign exchange rates)

DENOMINATOR:

Weighted-average cash used for 

investing activities(2)

Currency translation(1)

$

83.2

12.4

$

95.6

1,671.8%

Increase/

(decrease)

(281.1)

1,567.5

$ 2,889.9

$ 3,064.9

39.5

$ 3,104.4

93.1%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

Free Cash Flow and Free Cash Flow Conversion Rate
Dollars in millions

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

Cash (provided by) used for 

    investing activities

Cash provided by operations

Less:  Capital expenditures

Free cash flow

Divided by:  Net income

Free cash flow conversion rate

$ 5,551.2

$ 6,059.6

$ 6,539.1

1,853.7

1,821.1

1,813.9

$ 3,697.5

$ 4,238.5

$ 4,725.2

5,192.3

71.2%

4,686.5

4,529.3

90.4%

104.3%

(3)  Significant investing cash inflows resulting from the Company's strategic refranchising initiatives and the gain from the sale of businesses in China and Hong Kong 

benefited the one-year and three-year ROIIC calculation by 1623.5% and 49.5%, respectively.  Excluding these items, one-year and three-year ROIIC were 48.3% 

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

2015

2014

$ (562.0)

$

981.6

$ (562.0) $ 981.6

$ 1,420.0

$ 2,304.9

Cash (provided by) used

for investing activities

AS A PERCENT

Quarters ended:

87.5%

12.5%

March 31

87.5%

100.0%

100.0%

12.5%

62.5

37.5

12.5

37.5

62.5

87.5

June 30

September 30

December 31

62.5

37.5

12.5

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

100.0

37.5

62.5

87.5

AS A PERCENT

Quarters ended:

March 31

June 30

September 30

December 31

and 43.6%, respectively.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign Currency-Denominated Debt as a Percent of Total Debt(1)

Reconciliation of Returns on Incremental Invested Capital

Dollars in millions

Total debt obligations

Fair value adjustments

Deferred debt costs

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt

costs

Foreign currency-denominated debt

Foreign currency-denominated debt as a percent of total debt

Years ended December 31, 2017

$29,536.4

$ 25,955.7

$ 24,122.1

2016

—

110.0

2015

(1.8)

106.0

6.2

120.5

$29,663.1

$12,379.8

$ 26,065.7

$ 8,926.2

$ 24,226.3

$ 7,016.1

42%

34%

29%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

Total Debt as a Percent of Total Capitalization(1)(2)

Years ended December 31, 2017

Dollars in millions

Total debt obligations

Fair value adjustments

Deferred debt costs

costs

Total capitalization

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt

Total debt as a percent of total capitalization

$29,536.4

$ 25,955.7

$ 24,122.1

2016

—

110.0

2015

(1.8)

106.0

6.2

120.5

$29,663.1

$26,395.1

$ 26,065.7

$ 23,861.4

$ 24,226.3

$ 31,314.2

112%

109%

77%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

(2)  Total capitalization represents debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt costs, and total shareholders' equity.

Cash Provided by Operations as a Percent of Total Debt(1)

Years ended December 31, 2017

Dollars in millions

Total debt obligations

Fair value adjustments

Deferred debt costs

costs

Cash provided by operations

Debt obligations before fair value adjustments and deferred debt

Cash provided by operations as a percent of total debt

$29,536.4

$25,955.7

$24,122.1

2016

—

110.0

2015

(1.8)

106.0

6.2

120.5

$29,663.1

$ 5,551.2

$26,065.7

$ 6,059.6

$24,226.3

$ 6,539.1

19%

23%

27%

(1)  Based on debt obligations before the effects of fair value hedging adjustments and deferred debt costs. These effects are excluded as they have no impact on the 

obligation at maturity. See Debt financing note to the consolidated financial statements.

Free Cash Flow and Free Cash Flow Conversion Rate

Dollars in millions

Cash provided by operations

Less:  Capital expenditures

Free cash flow

Divided by:  Net income

Free cash flow conversion rate

Years ended December 31, 2017

2016

2015

$ 5,551.2

$ 6,059.6

$ 6,539.1

1,853.7

1,821.1

1,813.9

$ 3,697.5

$ 4,238.5

$ 4,725.2

5,192.3

71.2%

4,686.5

4,529.3

90.4%

104.3%

ROIIC is a measure reviewed by management over one-year and three-year time periods to evaluate the overall profitability of our markets, 
the effectiveness of capital deployed and the future allocation of capital. This measure is calculated using operating income and constant 
foreign exchange rates to exclude the impact of foreign currency translation. The numerator is the Company’s incremental operating income 
plus depreciation and amortization from the base period.

The denominator is the weighted-average cash used for investing activities during the applicable one-or three-year period. The 
weighted-average cash used for investing activities is based on a weighting applied on a quarterly basis. These weightings are used to 
reflect the estimated contribution of each quarter’s investing activities to incremental operating income. For example, fourth quarter 2017 
investing activities are weighted less because the assets purchased have only recently been deployed and would have generated little 
incremental operating income (12.5% of fourth quarter 2017 investing activities are included in the one-year and three-year calculations). In 
contrast, fourth quarter 2016 is heavily weighted because the assets purchased were deployed more than 12 months ago, and therefore 
have a full-year impact on 2017 operating income, with little or no impact to the base period (87.5% and 100.0% of fourth quarter 2016 
investing activities are included in the one-year and three-year calculations, respectively). Cash used for investing activities can vary 
significantly by quarter, resulting in a weighted-average that may be higher or lower than the simple average of the periods presented. 
Management believes that weighting cash used for investing activities provides a more accurate reflection of the relationship between its 
investments and returns than a simple average.

The reconciliations to the most comparable measurements, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., for 

the numerator and denominator of the one-year and three-year ROIIC are as follows:

One-year ROIIC calculation (dollars in millions):

Three-year ROIIC calculation (dollars in millions):

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

NUMERATOR:
Operating income

$ 9,552.7

$7,744.5

Depreciation and amortization
Currency translation(1)
Change in operating income plus depreciation and

1,363.4

1,516.5

Increase/
(decrease)

$1,808.2
(153.1)

(56.9)

amortization (at constant foreign exchange rates)

$1,598.2

DENOMINATOR:

Weighted-average cash used for 

investing activities(2)
Currency translation(1)

Weighted-average cash used for investing activities

(at constant foreign exchange rates)

One-year ROIIC(3)

$

83.2

12.4

$

95.6

1,671.8%

Years ended December 31,

2017

2014

Increase/
(decrease)

NUMERATOR:
Operating income

Depreciation and amortization
Currency translation(1)

$ 9,552.7

$7,949.2

$ 1,603.5

1,363.4

1,644.5

Change in operating income plus depreciation and

amortization (at constant foreign exchange rates)

DENOMINATOR:

Weighted-average cash used for 

investing activities(2)
Currency translation(1)

Weighted-average cash used for investing activities

(at constant foreign exchange rates)

Three-year ROIIC(3)

(281.1)

1,567.5

$ 2,889.9

$ 3,064.9

39.5

$ 3,104.4

93.1%

(1)  Represents the effect of foreign currency translation by translating results at an average exchange rate for the periods measured.

(2)  Represents one-year and three-year, respectively, weighted-average cash used for investing activities, determined by applying the weightings below to the cash 

(provided by) used for investing activities for each quarter in the two-year and four-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

Cash (provided by) used for 
    investing activities

AS A PERCENT

Quarters ended:

March 31

June 30

September 30
December 31

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

$ (562.0)

$

981.6

Cash (provided by) used
for investing activities

AS A PERCENT

Quarters ended:

Years ended December 31,

2017

2016

2015

2014

$ (562.0) $ 981.6

$ 1,420.0

$ 2,304.9

87.5%

12.5%

March 31

62.5
37.5
12.5

37.5

62.5
87.5

June 30

September 30
December 31

87.5%
62.5
37.5
12.5

100.0%
100.0
100.0
100.0

100.0%
100.0
100.0
100.0

12.5%

37.5

62.5
87.5

(3)  Significant investing cash inflows resulting from the Company's strategic refranchising initiatives and the gain from the sale of businesses in China and Hong Kong 
benefited the one-year and three-year ROIIC calculation by 1623.5% and 49.5%, respectively.  Excluding these items, one-year and three-year ROIIC were 48.3% 
and 43.6%, respectively.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exhibit 23.  Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements of McDonald's Corporation (listed below) and in the related 
prospectuses of our reports dated February 23, 2018 with respect to the consolidated financial statements of McDonald's Corporation and 
the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of McDonald's Corporation, included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the 
year ended December 31, 2017.

Commission File No. for Registration Statements

Form S-3

333-205731

Form S-8

333-71656

333-115770

333-149990

333-177314

333-193015

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Chicago, Illinois
February 23, 2018

Exhibit 21.  Subsidiaries of the Registrant

Name of Subsidiary [State or Country of Incorporation] 

Domestic Subsidiaries 
McD Europe Franchising LLC [Delaware]
McDonald's APMEA, LLC [Delaware]
McDonald's Deutschland LLC [Delaware]
McDonald's Development Italy LLC [Delaware]
McDonald's Global Markets LLC [Delaware]
McDonald's International Property Company, Ltd. [Delaware]
McDonald's Real Estate Company [Delaware]
McDonald's Restaurant Operations Inc. [Delaware]
McDonald's USA, LLC [Delaware] 

Foreign Subsidiaries
3267114 Nova Scotia Company [Canada]
Asia Pacific McD Franchising [United Kingdom]
Moscow-McDonalds [Russia]
HanGook McDonald's Co. Ltd. [South Korea]
McDonald's LLC [Russia]
McD APMEA Holdings Pte. Ltd. [Singapore]
McD APMEA Singapore Investments Pte. Ltd. [Singapore]
McD Europe Holdings S.a.r.l [Luxembourg]
MCD Europe Limited [United Kingdom]
MCD Global Franchising Limited [United Kingdom]
MCDI Holdings Limited [United Kingdom]
MCD Investments Limited [United Kingdom]
McDonald's Australia Limited [Australia]
McDonald's France S.A.S. [France]
McDonald's GmbH [Germany]
McDonald's Grundstucks GmbH & Co. KG [Germany] 
McDonald's Immobilien Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung [Germany]
McDonald's Nederland B.V. [Netherlands]
McDonald's Polska Sp. z o.o [Poland]
McDonald's Real Estate LLP [United Kingdom]
McDonald's Restaurants Limited [United Kingdom]
McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited [Canada]
McDonald's Suisse Development Sàrl [Switzerland]
McDonald's Suisse Restaurants Sàrl [Switzerland]
Restaurantes McDonald's, S.A. [Spain]

The names of certain subsidiaries have been omitted because they do not constitute significant subsidiaries. These include, but are not limited to: McDonald's 
International, LLC [Delaware]; McDonald's Latin America, LLC [Delaware]; and other domestic and foreign, direct and indirect subsidiaries of the registrant, 
including 49 wholly-owned subsidiaries of McDonald's USA, LLC, many of which operate one or more McDonald's restaurants within the United States and 
the District of Columbia.
[    ]  Brackets indicate state or country of incorporation and do not form part of corporate name. 

 
Exhibit 23.  Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements of McDonald's Corporation (listed below) and in the related 
prospectuses of our reports dated February 23, 2018 with respect to the consolidated financial statements of McDonald's Corporation and 
the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of McDonald's Corporation, included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the 
year ended December 31, 2017.

Commission File No. for Registration Statements

Form S-3

333-205731

Form S-8

333-71656

333-115770

333-149990

333-177314

333-193015

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Chicago, Illinois
February 23, 2018

Exhibit 21.  Subsidiaries of the Registrant

Name of Subsidiary [State or Country of Incorporation] 

Domestic Subsidiaries 

McD Europe Franchising LLC [Delaware]

McDonald's APMEA, LLC [Delaware]

McDonald's Deutschland LLC [Delaware]

McDonald's Development Italy LLC [Delaware]

McDonald's Global Markets LLC [Delaware]

McDonald's International Property Company, Ltd. [Delaware]

McDonald's Real Estate Company [Delaware]

McDonald's Restaurant Operations Inc. [Delaware]

McDonald's USA, LLC [Delaware] 

Foreign Subsidiaries

3267114 Nova Scotia Company [Canada]

Asia Pacific McD Franchising [United Kingdom]

Moscow-McDonalds [Russia]

HanGook McDonald's Co. Ltd. [South Korea]

McDonald's LLC [Russia]

McD APMEA Holdings Pte. Ltd. [Singapore]

McD APMEA Singapore Investments Pte. Ltd. [Singapore]

McD Europe Holdings S.a.r.l [Luxembourg]

MCD Europe Limited [United Kingdom]

MCD Global Franchising Limited [United Kingdom]

MCDI Holdings Limited [United Kingdom]

MCD Investments Limited [United Kingdom]

McDonald's Australia Limited [Australia]

McDonald's France S.A.S. [France]

McDonald's GmbH [Germany]

McDonald's Grundstucks GmbH & Co. KG [Germany] 

McDonald's Immobilien Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung [Germany]

McDonald's Nederland B.V. [Netherlands]

McDonald's Polska Sp. z o.o [Poland]

McDonald's Real Estate LLP [United Kingdom]

McDonald's Restaurants Limited [United Kingdom]

McDonald's Restaurants of Canada Limited [Canada]

McDonald's Suisse Development Sàrl [Switzerland]

McDonald's Suisse Restaurants Sàrl [Switzerland]

Restaurantes McDonald's, S.A. [Spain]

The names of certain subsidiaries have been omitted because they do not constitute significant subsidiaries. These include, but are not limited to: McDonald's 

International, LLC [Delaware]; McDonald's Latin America, LLC [Delaware]; and other domestic and foreign, direct and indirect subsidiaries of the registrant, 

including 49 wholly-owned subsidiaries of McDonald's USA, LLC, many of which operate one or more McDonald's restaurants within the United States and 

the District of Columbia.

[    ]  Brackets indicate state or country of incorporation and do not form part of corporate name. 

 
Exhibit 24.  Power of Attorney

Exhibit 31.1.  Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer

Power of Attorney 

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each of the undersigned, being a director or officer, or both, of McDonald's 
Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), hereby constitutes and appoints Denise A. Horne, Catherine Hoovel, Kevin M. Ozan 
and Jerome N. Krulewitch, and each one of them, as his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution 
and resubstitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities to execute any and all amendments to 
the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, to be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange 
Commission by the Company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in 
connection therewith, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each one of them, full power and authority to do and perform 
each and every act and thing requisite or necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she 
might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any one of them, or their or his or 
her substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. 

This Power of Attorney may be signed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, with the same effect as if the 

signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has executed this Power of Attorney on and as of the 23rd day of February, 2018. 

/s/ Lloyd H. Dean

Lloyd H. Dean

Director

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook

Stephen J. Easterbrook

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

/s/ John J. Mulligan

John J. Mulligan

Director

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan

I, Stephen J. Easterbrook, certify that: 

(1) 

(2) 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of McDonald’s Corporation;

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 

necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading 

with respect to the period covered by this report;

(3) 

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all 

material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented 

in this report;

(4) 

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures 

(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange 

Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) 

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed 

under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, 

is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) 

Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 

designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 

preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) 

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our 

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this 

report based on such evaluation; and

(d) 

Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 

registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has 

materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

(Principal Executive Officer)

Corporate Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

(5) 

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over 

(Principal Financial Officer)

financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing 

/s/ Sheila A. Penrose

Sheila A. Penrose

Director

/s/ John W. Rogers, Jr.

John W. Rogers, Jr.

Director

/s/ Miles D. White

Miles D. White

Director

Date: February 23, 2018

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook

Stephen J. Easterbrook

President and Chief Executive Officer

/s/ Robert A. Eckert

Robert A. Eckert

Director

/s/ Margaret H. Georgiadis

Margaret H. Georgiadis

Director

/s/ Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Chairman of the Board and Director

/s/ Catherine Hoovel

Catherine Hoovel

Corporate Vice President – Chief Accounting Officer

(Principal Accounting Officer)

/s/ Jeanne P. Jackson

Jeanne P. Jackson

Director

/s/ Richard H. Lenny

Richard H. Lenny

Director

the equivalent functions):

information; and

(a) 

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 

which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 

(b) 

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Exhibit 24.  Power of Attorney

Exhibit 31.1.  Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Executive Officer

Power of Attorney 

I, Stephen J. Easterbrook, certify that: 

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each of the undersigned, being a director or officer, or both, of McDonald's 

Corporation, a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), hereby constitutes and appoints Denise A. Horne, Catherine Hoovel, Kevin M. Ozan 

and Jerome N. Krulewitch, and each one of them, as his or her true and lawful attorneys-in-fact and agents, with full power of substitution 

and resubstitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities to execute any and all amendments to 

the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, to be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange 

Commission by the Company under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, with all exhibits thereto, and other documents in 

connection therewith, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents, and each one of them, full power and authority to do and perform 

each and every act and thing requisite or necessary to be done in and about the premises, as fully to all intents and purposes as he or she 

might or could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact and agents, or any one of them, or their or his or 

her substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. 

This Power of Attorney may be signed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original, with the same effect as if the 

signatures thereto and hereto were upon the same instrument. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the undersigned has executed this Power of Attorney on and as of the 23rd day of February, 2018. 

(Principal Executive Officer)

Corporate Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

/s/ John J. Mulligan

John J. Mulligan

Director

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan

(Principal Financial Officer)

/s/ Sheila A. Penrose

Sheila A. Penrose

Director

/s/ John W. Rogers, Jr.

John W. Rogers, Jr.

Director

/s/ Miles D. White

Miles D. White

Director

/s/ Lloyd H. Dean

Lloyd H. Dean

Director

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook

Stephen J. Easterbrook

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

/s/ Robert A. Eckert

Robert A. Eckert

Director

/s/ Margaret H. Georgiadis

Margaret H. Georgiadis

Director

/s/ Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Enrique Hernandez, Jr.

Chairman of the Board and Director

/s/ Catherine Hoovel

Catherine Hoovel

/s/ Jeanne P. Jackson

Jeanne P. Jackson

Director

/s/ Richard H. Lenny

Richard H. Lenny

Director

Corporate Vice President – Chief Accounting Officer

(Principal Accounting Officer)

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of McDonald’s Corporation;

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading 
with respect to the period covered by this report;

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all 
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented 
in this report;

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures 
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange 
Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed 
under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, 
is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our 
conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this 
report based on such evaluation; and

Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has 
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

(5) 

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over 
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing 
the equivalent functions):

(a) 

(b) 

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 
information; and

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 23, 2018

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook

Stephen J. Easterbrook

President and Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 32.1.  Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 by the Chief Executive Officer, as
Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States 
Code), the undersigned officer of McDonald’s Corporation (the “Company”), does hereby certify, to such officer’s knowledge, that the Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 of the Company fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) 
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form 10-K fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial 
condition and results of operations of the Company. 

Date: February 23, 2018 

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook

Stephen J. Easterbrook

President and Chief Executive Officer

Exhibit 31.2.  Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer

I, Kevin M. Ozan, certify that: 

(1) 

(2) 

(3) 

(4) 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of McDonald’s Corporation;

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 
necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading 
with respect to the period covered by this report;

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all 
material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented 
in this report;

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures 
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange 
Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed 
under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, 
is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 
designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 
preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our 
conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this 
report based on such evaluation; and

Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 
registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has 
materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

(5) 

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over 
financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing 
the equivalent functions):

(a) 

(b) 

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 
which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 
information; and

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 
registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 23, 2018

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan

Corporate Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit 31.2.  Rule 13a-14(a) Certification of Chief Financial Officer

I, Kevin M. Ozan, certify that: 

(1) 

(2) 

I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of McDonald’s Corporation;

Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact 

necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading 

with respect to the period covered by this report;

Exhibit 32.1.  Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 by the Chief Executive Officer, as
Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States 
Code), the undersigned officer of McDonald’s Corporation (the “Company”), does hereby certify, to such officer’s knowledge, that the Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 of the Company fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) 
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form 10-K fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial 
condition and results of operations of the Company. 

(3) 

Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all 

material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented 

Date: February 23, 2018 

in this report;

/s/ Stephen J. Easterbrook
Stephen J. Easterbrook
President and Chief Executive Officer

(4) 

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures 

(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange 

Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) 

Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed 

under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, 

is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) 

Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be 

designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the 

preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) 

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our 

conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this 

report based on such evaluation; and

(d) 

Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the 

registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has 

materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

(5) 

The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over 

financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing 

the equivalent functions):

information; and

Date: February 23, 2018

(a) 

All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting 

which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial 

(b) 

Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the 

registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan

Kevin M. Ozan

Corporate Executive Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit 32.2.  Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 by the Chief Financial Officer, as Adopted
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States 
Code), the undersigned officer of McDonald’s Corporation (the “Company”), does hereby certify, to such officer’s knowledge, that the Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017 of the Company fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) 
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form 10-K fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial 
condition and results of operations of the Company. 

Date: February 23, 2018 

/s/ Kevin M. Ozan
Kevin M. Ozan
Corporate Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer

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McDonald’s Corporation

One McDonald’s Plaza, Oak Brook, IL 60523

corporate.mcdonalds.com