McDonald's has announced it will restructure globally in an attempt to get the fast food giant back on its feet.
Fast Food Faltering
McDonald's has had its share of troubles over the past year.
Following global food scandals, McDonald's attempted to reset its image by launching the Our Food. Your Questions campaign with former Mythbusters co-host, Grant Imahara.
Then earlier this year, former CEO Don Thompson stepped down.
Steve Easterbrook has taken the reins as CEO, focusing the new global restructuring plan on four main groups: the U.S., international lead markets, high-growth markets and foundational markets.
Easterbrook said in a press release part of the change will include re-franchising 3,500 company-owned restaurants by the end of 2018. Franchises would then account for 90 percent of McDonald's restaurants globally.
Change Is Coming?
Rather than focusing on geography, McDonald's has grouped their restaurants by similar market segments.
The U.S. represents 40 percent of McDonald's operating income.
International lead markets include Australia, Canada, France, Germany and the U.K. -- about 40 percent of the operating income.
High-growth markets include China, Italy, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland and the Netherlands -- places where there is potential to expand.
Foundational markets are every remaining market that doesn't fall into one of the above markets.