What was the name of McDonald’s 1955 parent company founded by Ray Kroc?

Ray Kroc founded McDonald’s System, Inc. as the company’s 1955 parent organization.

Kroc formed the company after becoming the national franchise agent for Richard and Maurice McDonald’s restaurant concept. The name reflected his focus on turning the brothers’ operating methods into a standardized franchise system.

The company was later renamed McDonald’s Corporation in 1960. That change is why modern references often use McDonald’s Corporation when discussing the business, even though the earlier 1955 name was McDonald’s System, Inc.

The company’s corporate naming history is separate from the restaurant brand’s visual identity. Golden Arches, slogans, and characters shaped public recognition, while the parent company’s name changed as Kroc expanded the organization.