McDonald’s is one of the most recognizable brands in the world — golden arches, Happy Meals, and drive-thrus in nearly every country. But behind the Big Macs and fries, the company has a history full of unexpected twists, record-breaking stats, and more than a few quirks.

Here are 10 surprising facts about McDonald’s that might just change the way you see the fast-food giant.

1. McDonald’s Is the World’s Largest Toy Distributor. Thanks to Happy Meals, McDonald’s gives out more toys per year than any toy company on Earth — even more than Hasbro or Mattel. Many of these toys are tied to blockbuster movie promotions, making them instant collector’s items.
2. The First Menu Item Wasn’t a Burger. The original McDonald’s, opened by Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940, served BBQ. The menu included barbecued beef, ham, and chili. It wasn’t until 1948 that they switched to a simplified menu of burgers, fries, and shakes — which set the foundation for the McDonald’s we know today.
3. Billions Served Is an Understatement. McDonald’s famously updated its signage to “Over 1 Billion Served” in the 1950s. Today, that number is estimated to be over 100 billion — and climbing. That’s more burgers than there are people on the planet… many times over.
4. The McDonald’s Arch Was Originally a Structural Feature. The golden arches were first introduced in 1953 as part of the restaurant’s architecture — actual golden arches on the sides of the building. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the arches evolved into the stylized “M” we know today.
5. McDonald’s Once Owned Chipotle. In the early 2000s, McDonald’s was a major investor in Chipotle, helping it grow from a regional chain to a national sensation. By 2006, McDonald’s sold its stake to focus on its core business. In hindsight, that divestment cost them a piece of the fast-casual boom.
6. You Can Order a McBeer in Some Countries. In parts of Europe, including Germany and France, you can order beer with your Big Mac. It’s part of McDonald’s effort to align with local dining habits and tastes — one of the many ways the chain adapts internationally.
7. The Filet-O-Fish Was Created for a Catholic Customer Base. In 1962, a franchise owner in Ohio noticed a dip in sales on Fridays due to Catholic customers abstaining from meat. His solution? The Filet-O-Fish. It became a menu staple and remains a popular seasonal item around Lent.
8. There’s a Hamburger University. McDonald’s runs a global training center called Hamburger University, founded in 1961. It has campuses around the world and trains thousands of restaurant managers and franchisees every year. Graduates earn a degree in Hamburgerology.
9. McDonald’s Has a Secret Menu — Kind Of. While not officially recognized, McDonald’s “secret menu” is a fan-made phenomenon. Items like the McGangBang (a McChicken inside a McDouble) or the Land, Sea & Air Burger (combining beef, chicken, and fish) can often be assembled by creative customers using standard menu items.
10. The Most Profitable Item Isn’t a Burger. French fries are McDonald’s most profitable item. They’re inexpensive to make, beloved by customers, and sold in huge volumes. The margin on fries helps offset the cost of other ingredients — which is why you’re always asked, “Do you want fries with that?”