McDonald’s Corp., Oak Brook, IL, announced on Aug. 22 that Jeff Stratton, president of McDonald's USA, will retire on Oct. 15, after 41 years with the brand.

Succeeding Stratton is Mike Andres, CEO and chairman of Logan's Roadhouse Inc. and a former McDonald’s executive. Andres began his career at McDonald’s as manager for his family-owned restaurant in Northern California. He went on to build a 30-year career at McDonald’s in diverse leadership roles. He started in marketing and worked across operations and developments before becoming regional vice president and senior vice president. From 2001 to 2007, he served as president and CEO of Boston Market, a McDonald’s subsidiary at that time. From 2010 to 2012, he served as president of the central division in the U.S.

“I’m thrilled to be back at McDonald's,” says Andres. “It's an honor to return to the industry leader as part of a talented team. Together, we'll focus on our customers as we capitalize on the opportunities in the U.S. market.”

According to the Chicago Tribune, McDonald’s approximately 14,000 U.S. restaurants have been struggling for months due to strong competition and Americans' changing diets. In four out of the last six quarters, U.S. same-store sales for stores open at least a year declined. In July, U.S. same-store sales declined 3.2%, despite heavy promotions during the World Cup soccer tournament.

Source: Marketwired, Chicago Tribune