American multinational fast-food giant with 40,000+ outlets, franchised model, AI and expansion bets
McDonald’s has reported slower US comparable sales growth in the latest quarter as higher prices squeeze lower-income diners. The chain is restoring digital offers and rolling out targeted loyalty promotions while naming a new US leader to accelerate execution. Global sales rose modestly, with international markets also easing.
The Washington Post reports a covert move during July’s NATO summit in Ankara, where Trump reportedly boarded the older Air Force One, then was secretly moved to a smaller jet via a catering truck. Reportedly, journalists believed they were traveling with him on Air Force One, while he flew to RAF Mildenhall in the UK on a different plane.
Independent and New York Post report recalls and new menus; Chick-fil-A is adding Chicken & Waffles Sandwiches and S’mores drinks in a fall line-up, while McDonald’s is reviving Spicy Chicken McNuggets and Mighty Hot Sauce, alongside new desserts and fizzy drinks.
Walmart has announced it is directing tariff refunds toward price cuts and improved customer experiences. US comparable sales have slowed, though the company reports a continued lift from rollbacks and investments in groceries and essentials. Analysts warn profits may face headwinds from fuel costs and automation spending amid uneven consumer demand.
Church's Texas Chicken opens first China location in Shanghai, drawing long lines and sparking a side hustle around queueing services. Official data show services spending outpacing goods as catering revenue rises, while McKinsey notes foreign firms must invest to stay relevant in China’s evolving market.
A wave of higher borrowing costs is squeezing budgets as the AI buildout accelerates, with authorities signaling tighter policy ahead. Officials face pressure to balance growth and inflation, while bond markets push yields higher amid renewed funding needs.
Independent and other outlets report a shift away from AI-driven ordering toward more human interaction in fast-food. Chains are re-emphasizing staff contact, greetings and order accuracy after years of automated expansion.
Lillia, a 13-year-old from Bolton, remains missing after police confirm sightings in Greater Manchester. She was last seen at the Trafford Centre on Saturday, then on a bus to Altrincham; investigators are reviewing CCTV and doorbell footage and appeal for help from anyone who was on the 247 bus or has information on her whereabouts.
McDonald’s has unveiled a $8.5 billion, 10-year plan to upgrade stores with more technology, AI-driven operations, new training, and a greater focus on chicken and beverages. Executives say the program will strengthen restaurant economics and improve the customer experience, while managing franchisee costs.
McDonald’s has begun piloting ads from other companies on digital drive-thru boards at about 450 company-owned U.S. locations, aiming to create a high-margin media network and potentially reach $1 billion in revenue. The rollout may expand to franchisees and comes as the chain plans restaurant upgrades and menu enhancements.
KFC has opened Open House in McKinney, Texas, a test restaurant offering breakfast, late hours, table service, and new menu items. The concept aims to learn what works for guests and rolls out successful ideas system-wide. The restaurant features digital kiosks, table service, dual drive-thru lanes, a photo booth and merch counter.
McDonald’s has introduced an AI-driven pricing platform to help franchisees estimate customer willingness to pay. Reuters reports it has widened price gaps for the same items across nearby stores, though McDonald’s says the tool offers suggestions, not real-time price setting. Some franchisees say they feel pressured to adopt the system as inflation hits costs.
KFC has opened Open House, a test restaurant in McKinney, Texas, blending digital ordering with human service. The format includes modern design, lobby hosts, table service, and extended hours while preserving core items like Original Recipe chicken. The goal is to measure how customers eat chicken today and whether breakfast and late-night parts can scale nationally.
Lawsuits allege McDonald’s uses an AI-augmented pricing system that shares nonpublic sales data across franchises to set menu prices, a claim McDonald’s denies, saying pricing decisions remain with franchisees. The suit seeks class-action status and damages.
The Alaska pollock fishery has come under renewed scrutiny as bycatch and sea-floor impacts are debated amid salmon declines and new restrictions. AP and Independent reports detail the scale of trawling, the bycatch of Chinook salmon, and the economic stakes for river communities. Scientists say warming waters contribute, while critics call for tighter controls.
KFC US will shift from PepsiCo to Coca‑Cola beverages starting January, with full rollout by Q1 2027. International KFC locations will keep PepsiCo drinks. Taco Bell and KFC international stores will also serve Coca‑Cola products.