Cognizant(CTSH) ZACKS·2025-01-22 17:36Core Insights - McDonald's Corporation (MCD) has extended its partnership with Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation (CTSH) for several years, building on their collaboration since 2017, focusing on technological excellence and innovative solutions in the restaurant industry [1][2] Partnership Details - The renewed agreement allows Cognizant to continue supporting McDonald's in key enterprise areas such as Global Finance Systems and Human Capital Management, which includes payroll processing, franchisee management, master data management, and legal applications [2] - Cognizant will contribute its expertise in product development, digital engineering, and quality assurance, along with innovations in Cloud, Enterprise AI, and Generative AI, aimed at enhancing staff enablement, customer experience, and operational efficiency for McDonald's [3] Strategic Initiatives - McDonald's operates in over 100 countries, focusing on sustained product innovation, geographic expansion, loyalty programs, and digital initiatives to enhance customer experience, operational improvements, service times, and customer satisfaction [4] - The company aims to improve performance in International Operated Markets, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, through value meals, menu customization, restaurant reimaging, efficient marketing, and increased convenience via delivery and digital presence [5] Financial Performance - McDonald's shares have increased by 11.3% over the past six months, compared to a 13.2% growth in the Zacks Retail - Restaurants industry [7] - Despite macroeconomic challenges and rising commodity and wage costs, McDonald's anticipates that its strategic initiatives will drive growth, with plans to open 50,000 restaurants by 2027 [7]