The ratings reflect McDonald's Corp.'s worldwide leadership in the quick-service sector of the restaurant industry, its ongoing business recovery, and its strong financial flexibility. These strengths are partially mitigated by McDonald's participation in the intensely competitive quick-service restaurant sector. McDonald's holds the No. 1 position in the world in terms of sales. The company possesses substantial business strengths due to its strong brand recognition, prime real estate locations, and marketing power. McDonald's focus on improving the quality of its food and service since April 2003 has resulted in strong growth in same-store sales and significant margin expansion. Standard&Poor's Ratings Services expects McDonald's currently good operating trends to continue due to its focus on improving the speed, accuracy, and
