McDonald's Corp.'s superior credit profile is supported by: A strong leadership position in the restaurant industry, An outstanding track record, Consistent financial strength, and Worldwide capital resources. Company-operated and franchised units total more than 29,000 worldwide and generate close to $41 billion in systemwide sales. Changes in senior management responsibilities and the implementation of a new "Made for You" production system set the stage for improved domestic results. U.S. operating income increased 8.7% in 2000 after a 46.0% rise in 1999. Yet total operating income for 2000 was flat, as the domestic gain was offset by consumer concern over the safety of the European beef supply as well as by a sharp drop in Latin American sales attributable to difficult
