McDonald’s Takes a Shot At Espresso Market

McDonald’s is planning to overtake Starbucks as Europe’s biggest coffee chain. It has plans to open several McCafe stores this year selling cappuccinos, blended coffees and pastries, which are traditionally Starbucks’ ground.

McDonald’s is currently running commercials in Michigan and Kansas City, both test markets for the expansion.

The fast-food retailer wants to expand its McCafe chain, which operates within or next to regular McDonald’s restaurants, to 1,200 in Europe by the end of the year.

Nearly half of Germany’s McDonald’s restaurants have McCafes, while some 20% of restaurants in Russia and Italy also feature them.

The chain is also planning openings in France and Austria. It has yet to open any McCafes in the UK, where about half of Starbucks’ European stores are based.

By staff writer