A woman with a surprised expression in front of the McDonald's and Burger King signs in the United States.
CONSUMER AFFAIRS

McDonald's confirms that the rumors in the United States are true: Goodbye Burger King

McDonald's takes a step forward in the United States and leaves Burger King in a difficult position within the sector

For months, there has been talk of a major move in the fast food world. Rumors pointed to a change of course that could leave behind one of the historical competitors. Now, McDonald's has taken the definitive step that confirms those suspicions.

The chain has announced an ambitious growth plan that will completely change the landscape of the sector. With a clear strategy and large-scale objectives, the company seeks to reinforce its dominance in the United States. This expansion could deal a definitive blow to rivals like Burger King, which struggles to remain relevant.

A fast-food restaurant with a modern design and a yellow logo on the facade.
McDonald’s will open 900 new locations in the U.S | McDonalds

The largest expansion plan in years

McDonald's has confirmed that it will open 900 new locations in the United States by 2027. Additionally, it will hire up to 375,000 employees just this summer, marking the company's largest hiring initiative in recent years. With more than 13,500 restaurants already in operation, this step represents an increase of almost 7% in its national presence, according to The Sun.

This growth is not just a reaction to the current market situation. It is a long-term bet to consolidate its leadership. Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald's in the U.S., explained that they see a very promising future and are determined to seize every opportunity.

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer participated in the official announcement in Ohio. During the event, she highlighted the positive economic impact that McDonald's generates with these initiatives. According to her words, the chain is driving a domino effect of prosperity in communities.

A fast-food restaurant with an outdoor play area and a modern design.
The chain will hire up to 375,000 employees this summer | McDonalds

New products and response to the competition

Although the main goal is to grow, McDonald's also seeks to attract its customers back with renewed products. One of the most talked-about launches is the McCrispy Chicken Strips. This new version of the classic chicken strips has taken social media by storm and has been compared to products from Popeyes, KFC, or even Chick-fil-A.

The company trusts that these new offerings, along with an affordable menu, will help curb the decline in sales. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, sales in already open stores fell by 3.6%, the largest drop since the pandemic. In this context, offering quality at a good price becomes essential to win back the public.

Excited woman raising her arms next to a McDonald's sign under a blue sky.
McDonald’s celebrates 10 years of its educational program | en.edatv.news

McDonald's is also celebrating the tenth anniversary of its educational program Archways to Opportunity. This project supports the training of its employees and reinforces the company's commitment to people. With all this, McDonald's shows that it not only thinks about selling more but also about investing in its future and that of its workers.

This firm and organized commitment reinforces its leadership in an increasingly competitive market. While other chains like Chipotle grow, none do so at the pace and scale that McDonald's plans. The post-Burger King era seems closer than ever.

➡️ Consumer Affairs

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