McDonald's® Corporation Names Ronald McDonald Chief Happiness Officer

McDonald's Corporation (NYSE: MCD) announced today the promotion of Ronald McDonald to the newly created position of Chief Happiness Officer for the company.

Commenting on Ronald's promotion, McDonald's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jim Cantalupo said, "Ronald has brought joy to everyone he's ever met, and this promotion is a way of saying thanks for all the great work he's done. Everything good about McDonald's is embodied in Ronald -- he is forever young -- and he's taught us there's a little bit of Ronald in all of us."

Ronald will report directly to Cantalupo.

Throughout his 40-year career with McDonald's, Ronald has become a magical friend to children of all ages, and has worked tirelessly to make the world a better place. Additionally, Ronald is the inspirational leader of Ronald McDonald House Charities, which helps children live better, happier and healthier lives.

Ronald, who joined McDonald's in 1963 will continue his duties as a goodwill ambassador, traveling the world to bring fun and happiness to people of all ages. Additionally, as part of his new responsibilities, Ronald- watchers should expect to see more high-profile appearances and plenty of surprises, too. His next major appearance will be in Munich, Germany on September 2nd to help launch McDonald's "i'm lovin' it"™ worldwide marketing campaign.

"I'm delighted with this recognition, but where's my corner office?" Ronald McDonald said. "I'm lovin' it, not only my new title, but the opportunity to expand my role to keep doing what I love -- making people laugh, providing a helping hand, and most importantly, being happy."

"Ronald's elevation in the company is the latest example of the new attitude and style at McDonald's," said Cantalupo. "He'll be a great addition to our board room meetings."

Terms of Ronald's contract and compensation package were not disclosed.

McDonald's is the world's leading food service retailer serving 46 million customers each day in more than 100 countries. Ronald McDonald has personally visited every one of McDonald's 30,000 restaurants.

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SOURCE: McDonald's Corporation

CONTACT: Bridget Coffing, +1-630-623-6263, or Walt Riker,
+1-630-623-7318, both of McDonald's Corporation

Web site: http://www.mcdonalds.com/