Ray Kroc

PHOTO: Ray Kroc, basically considered the founder of McDonald’s. FILE

“We are on a well-defined path toward future expansion. Earlier this month, McDonald’s unveiled an ambitious plan to increase its global presence to 50,000 restaurants, marking a significant milestone for the company. Currently operating 40,000 restaurants, this expansion is comparable to adding nearly the entire footprint of Dunkin’, or both Wendy’s and Carl’s Jr., emphasizing that it is a growth strategy rather than an acquisition.

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McDonald’s CEO, Chris Kempczinski, expressed confidence in achieving this goal by 2027, stating, ‘We have a clear trajectory for future growth.’ He highlighted the brand’s strength, global reach, and digital ecosystem as key factors contributing to its unparalleled competitive advantages, solidifying McDonald’s position as one of the world’s premier consumer-facing brands.

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As I pondered McDonald’s future plans, I came across a remarkable story that adds a personal touch to the company’s long journey. Barbara Cramer, a 75-year-old employee, has been a part of the McDonald’s team in Florida since 1970. Most of her tenure has been at a McDonald’s in Fort Pierce, Florida, located roughly halfway between Miami and Orlando.

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In a recent celebration, her dedication and 53 years of service were acknowledged by her boss, garnering global attention. Despite McDonald’s not confirming her position on the ‘longest time working for McDonald’s’ leaderboard, it’s evident that her tenure is exceptional. To put it in perspective, even Ray Kroc, considered the founder, was associated with McDonald’s for 33 years.

Cramer’s journey spans from the introduction of the Big Mac to witnessing various innovations and milestones, such as the Quarter Pounder, the first McDonald’s in the UK, the Egg McMuffin, the first drive-thru, the Happy Meal, Chicken McNuggets, the opening of McDonald’s in Moscow, the shift away from styrofoam containers, the closing and reopening of McDonald’s in Moscow, and the launch of the spin-off, CosMcs, in 2023.

Although Cramer now works part-time, she has no plans to retire, suggesting that she might witness McDonald’s achieve its 50,000th restaurant milestone. Her enduring commitment raises questions about the best ways to recognize and appreciate the dedication of longstanding employees, perhaps a topic to consider in the upcoming year.

In the meantime, a glimpse at a McDonald’s menu from the era when Cramer began her journey reveals a stark contrast to the present, highlighting the significant transformations the company has undergone over the years.”

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SOURCE: INC.