Stock Pulse
McDonald's is implementing AI in 40,000 locations to enhance ordering and efficiency, aiming to boost its 170 million-user loyalty program and drive growth, despite only 1% systemwide sales growth in 2024 [1]. The company's stock recently reached an all-time high due to this news and its recession-resistant model, but faces headwinds from weak international markets and currency exchange [1]. While Q4 2024 saw slowing global comparable sales growth (0.4%) and a US decline (1.4%), McDonald's anticipates improvement in late 2025 [2]. Concerns remain about decreased consumer spending and potential tariffs [2], [8]. A new Chief Restaurant Experience Officer position has been created to accelerate menu and technology rollouts [9], [10], [11], addressing concerns about development speed and declining US traffic [9]. Arcos Dorados, a large franchisee, reported strong Q4 performance, with digital sales and comparable sales growth exceeding expectations [6].