What is the name of the world’s largest McDonald’s franchisee?

Arcos Dorados is the world’s largest McDonald’s franchisee.

Arcos Dorados Holdings operates McDonald’s restaurants in Latin America and the Caribbean. Its territory includes countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, and Uruguay, although the exact operating footprint can change over time.

The company became independent in 2007 after acquiring McDonald’s operations in Latin America from a group associated with Woods Staton. Staton, who had previously worked with McDonald’s in the region, became Arcos Dorados’ executive chairman and chief executive.

Arcos Dorados is a franchisee rather than the owner of the McDonald’s brand itself. McDonald’s Corporation owns the trademarks and franchising system, while Arcos Dorados holds development rights and runs restaurants under franchise agreements. This distinction explains why the largest operator of McDonald’s locations is a separate company.