A McDonald's restaurant is operated by either a franchisee, an affiliate, or the corporation itself.
The corporation's revenues come from the rent, royalties and fees paid by the franchisees, as well as sales in company-operated restaurants.
McDonald's revenues grew 27% over the three years ending in 2007 to $22.8 billion, and 9% growth in operating income to $3.9 billion.
McDonald's primarily sells hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chicken products, french fries, breakfast items, soft drinks, shakes, and desserts.
In response to obesity trends in Western nations and in the face of criticism over the healthiness of its products, the company has modified its menu to include healthier alternatives such as salads, wraps and fruit.
The business began in 1940, with a restaurant opened by brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald in San Bernardino, California.
