Ray Kroc

Date of Birth: October 5, 1902

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: January 14, 1984

Biography

Raymond Albert Kroc, famously known as Ray Kroc, was born on October 5, 1902, in Oak Park, Illinois, USA. He was an American businessman and entrepreneur credited with the global expansion of McDonald’s, transforming it from a small chain of restaurants into the world’s largest fast food franchise. Kroc’s journey began modestly, working various jobs, including as a paper cup salesman and a pianist. His life took a pivotal turn in 1954 when he discovered a small but successful chain of restaurants owned by Richard and Maurice McDonald in San Bernardino, California. Recognizing the potential of their efficient service model, Kroc negotiated to become the franchise agent and later bought the company in 1961. Under his leadership, McDonald’s expanded rapidly, introducing standardized operations, innovative marketing strategies, and a rigorous focus on quality and customer service. Kroc was married three times and remained actively involved in the business until his death on January 14, 1984. His legacy continues to influence the fast food industry and modern franchising.

5 Interesting Facts about Ray Kroc

1. Ray Kroc served as a Red Cross ambulance driver during World War I, lying about his age to get enlisted at 15.

2. Before his success with McDonald’s, Kroc worked as a paper cup salesman and played the piano to make ends meet.

3. Kroc coined the term “QSC & V” which stands for Quality, Service, Cleanliness, and Value, a principle that became the cornerstone of McDonald’s operations.

4. He was an accomplished pianist and even worked as a DJ at one point in his career.

5. Ray Kroc was inducted into the Junior Achievement U.S. Business Hall of Fame in 1977.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Ray Kroc

1. “The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves.”

2. “If you have time to lean, you have time to clean.”

3. “Luck is a dividend of sweat. The more you sweat, the luckier you get.”

4. “The two most important requirements for major success are: first, being in the right place at the right time, and second, doing something about it.”

5. “As long as you’re green, you’re growing. As soon as you’re ripe, you start to rot.”