Q COSTARICA — McDonald’s Costa Rica, operated by Arcos Dorados, celebrates its 55th anniversary in the country this year, reaffirming its role as one of the leading generators of youth employment, a key player in boosting the national economy, and a constant driver of investment within the fast-food sector.
Since its arrival in Costa Rica in 1970, with the brand’s first restaurant outside of North America, the company has maintained constant expansion based on innovation, talent development, evolution toward sustainability, and support for the communities where it operates, upholding its purpose of “making every day an opportunity to feed people and build dreams.”
In 55 years, more than 90,000 people in Costa Rica have found employment at McDonald’s. Currently, it generates more than 2,500 formal jobs, with 50% female participation, reflecting its leadership in workplace inclusion. This commitment is also evident in the inclusion of approximately 50 people with disabilities on its teams and its most recent engagement index, which again exceeded 98% satisfaction (an anonymous employee satisfaction survey).
McDonald’s financial contribution is also reflected in its robust local supply network, where more than 50% of purchases come from local suppliers adhering to the highest quality standards. Partners such as Alimentos Turrialba, Vegetales Fresquita, Empacadora Agrícola La Trinidad, Impresora Delta, Panifresh, Coopedota, Cargill-Pipasa, Montecillos, Griffith Foods Costa Rica, Demasa, INOLASA, Dos Pinos, Smurfit Westrock, Bolem, Cemusa, and Femsa Costa Rica, among others, have strengthened their operations, expanded their export capacity, and generated high-value supply chains. Today, several of these suppliers serve not only the domestic market but also more than 10 countries where the brand operates.
This collaborative work with local industry has allowed Costa Rica to lead pioneering innovations in the region, such as becoming the first to offer carbon-neutral coffee with Rainforest Alliance certification, incorporating cage-free eggs, and creating the special breakfast packaging design, which is also used in other countries. All these actions reinforce the company’s commitment to responsible and sustainable practices, aligned with the expectations of Costa Rican consumers.
Historic Evolution
Since 1970, McDonald’s has also evolved in step with the culture and habits of Costa Rican families. The country has been the birthplace of regional innovations such as the first McCafé in Central America and the addition of the McPinto to the menu, reflecting the brand’s adaptation to local tastes. Likewise, collaborations with iconic brands like Guayabita and Tapita, among others, have strengthened the emotional connection with Costa Ricans, while initiatives like National Dog Day and National Cat Day also recognize the evolution of households, integrating pets as part of the family.
“Celebrating 55 years in Costa Rica fills us with pride and further commits us to the country’s development. We have built an operation that has become an enabler of first-time job opportunities for thousands of young people, we promote the development of local suppliers, and we are committed to innovation and sustainability as pillars of growth. Our focus will continue to be on positively impacting the communities where we operate, functioning responsibly and remaining close to Costa Rican families, accompanying them with experiences that evolve with their needs. Costa Rica has honored us with its preference for more than five decades, and we will continue investing and working to add value for many more years,” stated Marianela Ureña, Communications Manager of Arcos Dorados Costa Rica.
With 79 restaurants in the country, the company has prioritized initiatives that reduce its environmental footprint and modernize its operations. Among these initiatives are the installation of solar panels at the five newest restaurants, the remodeling of premises according to energy efficiency criteria such as LED lighting, low-consumption air conditioning, and more efficient kitchen equipment, and the implementation of material recovery systems.
In 2024 alone, according to the “Social Impact and Sustainable Development Report” published by the company, over 152 tons of cardboard, over 9 tons of Tetra Pak, over 226.5 kg of coffee bags, over 166,000 liters of oil, and 606 kg of thermal paper rolls were recovered, reaffirming the progress toward a more circular economy.
Digital transformation has also been key to this evolution.
Costa Rica was the first country in the region to implement digital kiosks and the Order & Pick Up service. Today, customers have more options than ever to choose the McDonald’s experience that best suits their preferences and the particular occasion. The mobile app has surpassed 2.5 million downloads, and the country was the third Arcos Dorados location to launch the MyMcDonald’s Loyalty Program, rewarding customers with benefits and access to unique experiences.
As part of its Family & Wellbeing pillar, McDonald’s has led one of the brand’s most significant social fundraising initiatives: Gran Día (Big Day). From 2005 to the present (including 2025), more than ¢2.346 billion has been raised, which has been allocated to projects that promote youth development and support families. Of that total, ¢675 million has been allocated to the YouthCan! employability program. McDonald’s has donated ¢1.671 billion to SOS Children’s Villages and ¢1.671 billion to the Ronald McDonald Children’s Foundation. These funds will strengthen educational programs, family support services, and the operation of the Ronald McDonald House, which provides shelter for families traveling from remote areas for their children’s medical care at the National Children’s Hospital.
For 55 years, McDonald’s has been a part of the daily lives of millions of Costa Ricans, reflecting social transformations, changes in consumption habits, and new ways of experiencing family. The brand has remained relevant thanks to a clear vision: to build experiences that are relatable, accessible, and consistent with the expectations of each generation. This connection with the community is one of its main drivers for continued growth.
Christmas Tour and other activities
As part of the celebration of McDonald’s 55th anniversary in Costa Rica, on Sunday, December 21, the company will hold a Christmas tour at several of its restaurants to share the magic of the season with Costa Rican communities and families. During this event, a Christmas show will be presented featuring carols, storytelling, photos with characters, and various surprises, in addition to special perks such as discounts and official brand merchandise.
With this celebration, McDonald’s reaffirms its commitment to continue growing alongside the country and to keep innovating to offer spaces, products, and services that adapt to the Costa Rican lifestyle. The 55th anniversary not only honors its history but also marks the beginning of a new chapter focused on further strengthening its relationship with communities and contributing to Costa Rica’s development in the years to come.