McDonald's Still Tops Chipotle & Panera, Despite Losing Millennials

This month, McDonald's reported its biggest decline in global same-store sales since 2003. At the same time, it's losing millennials -- an important demographic to the company's future. Mary Chapman, director of product innovation for food industry research firm Technomic, says millennials are turning away from McDonald's as they seek better product quality and a more pleasurable experience. But before McDonald's takes a cue from Chipotle or Panera, it needs to make sure it doesn't alienate its customer base that is used to consistency and speed. Chapman notes that McDonald's still made more money in domestic restaurant sales in 2013 than the fast casual segment overall, despite losing millennials.