The world's largest fast-food chain is about to get even bigger.
McDonald's says it plans to open another 10,000 locations worldwide over the next four years, with the goal of having 50,000 restaurants by the end of 2027.
The initiative, dubbed "Accelerating the Arches," marks the fastest period of growth in the company's history, said CEO Chris Kempczinski.
"We have a clear trajectory for future growth as we continue to build on the brand strength, global footprint and digital ecosystem that have resulted in unparalleled competitive advantages and cemented McDonald's as one of the world's leading consumer-facing brands," Kempczinski said in a statement.
About 900 of the new restaurants will reportedly be in the U.S., with the rest opening internationally. About half the new locations will be in China.
The company also plans to open a new chain of "small format" restaurants called CosMc's early next year, as a way to keep up with growing competitors like Starbucks and Dunkin'. The restaurants will sell customizable drinks, coffee and snacks that are popular in the afternoon segment.
The first CosMc's location, near the company’s headquarters in Chicago, is expected to open this week, according to CNBC. The company plans to open nine more locations, all in Texas, by the end of 2024.
McDonald's currently operates more than 40,000 restaurants in 118 countries.