How McDonald's makes money?

In 2016, "The Founder" an American biographical drama film directed by Mr. John Lee Hancock grabbed the attention of millions around the world, especially Entrepreneurs. It shows how Ray Kroc popularly known for Purchasing, Popularising, and Founding McDonalds. When you go back into the history of the fast food chain, you will find, Ray Kroc was not the actual founder of McDonalds. It was started by his clients (then Ray was a sales guy who sold milkshake mixing machine), Speedee Service System, launched in 1948 by two brothers, Richard James (Dick) ad Maurice James (Mac) McDonald, who successfully utilised the drive-in concept to food delivery and utility, and franchising. Impressed by what he saw, Ray Kroc became their franchise agent in 1954, opened up the first McDonald;s in 1955, and in 1961 he bought McDonald brother for $2.7 Million. Post that he served as its CEO from 1967 to 1973. 

It is a must watch movie, don't miss it. 

Now let us come to the much awaited topic, How McD earns money. 

When some asks this question the first thing that comes into our mind is "Burgers and Fries", but in reality apart from Royalty from fast food, McDonald's makes money from Rents. Yes you read it right, Rents. As per few reports the company owns approximately $41 Billion worth assets in property and equipment before accounting for depreciation, making it the 7th largest real estate company I the world. McDonal's real estate assets are the main reason behind its phenomenal and sustained success. 

As per 2019 reports there are approximately 36059 of the 38,695 restaurants were franchised with McDonald's operating the remains 2,636 restaurants. Approximately 93% of total capacity are franchises.