McDonald's Wants to Build a $1 Billion Ad Business

McDonald’s says it wants to turn its customer data and restaurant footprint into a new advertising business. At an investor day presentation Wednesday, leadership unveiled the McDonald’s Media Network, aiming to build a $1 billion ad revenue stream. Morgan Flatley, the chain’s global chief marketing officer, said the effort is designed to generate returns “with little in the way of additional cost” and without disrupting customer experience. McDonald’s has 70 million daily customers globally and plans to place ads in its app, kiosks, menu boards and restaurants. The concept was tested in 450 U.S. company-owned stores starting August, with potential for franchised locations too.