McDonald's replaces US President and delays expansion target

McDonald's has announced an immediate leadership change for its United States operations following disappointing second-quarter sales growth. Skye Anderson, a 26-year company veteran and former US Chief Operating Officer, has been named President of McDonald's USA, replacing Joe Erlinger. Erlinger will remain as an advisor through early 2027.

CEO Chris Kempczinski attributed the recent performance issues to execution lapses rather than strategic failures. The company noted that a heavy schedule of promotions and value meal offerings overwhelmed restaurant crews, leading to slower service and customer dissatisfaction. US same-store sales grew by only 0.8% in the second quarter, missing market expectations.

In addition to the management shake-up, McDonald's has adjusted its long-term expansion targets. The company now aims to reach a global total of 50,000 restaurants by the end of 2028, a one-year delay from the previous target of 2027. This adjustment is attributed to the current consumer climate and rising development costs driven by inflation.