OAK BROOK, ILL. — The board of directors of McDonald’s Corp. has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 70c per share of common stock payable on Dec. 15, 2011, to shareholders of record at the close of business on Dec. 1, 2011. The dividend represents a 15% increase over the company’s previous quarterly dividend rate and brings the fourth-quarter dividend payout to more than $700 million.

“Today’s announced dividend increase brings our 2011 expected total cash return to shareholders to about $6 billion through dividends and share repurchases,” said Jim Skinner, chief executive officer. “McDonald’s commitment to operations excellence and financial discipline under the Plan to Win, as well as our ongoing business momentum, continues to produce strong financial results. Our philosophy on the use of capital remains unchanged with our first priority being to reinvest in our business to drive sales and cash flow, while generating strong returns. After these investment opportunities, we expect to return all of our free cash flow to shareholders over the long term through dividends and share repurchases. Today’s dividend increase demonstrates our confidence in the long-term strength of our brand and our commitment to enhancing shareholder value.”