[ALee]

The same applies to why there is a McDonald's on the Champs Elysse in Paris, in the heart of Beijing, New York City, etc. It's a loss for the location, but it's really just an investment vehicle where the land itself is not being used for traditional purposes.

[angelbob]

McDonalds is very open about investing in real estate. They own all their own locations. The restaurant is basically just to pay the rent on the land they own.

[mikeash]

Paris, maybe, but I'd be surprised if McDonald's loses money in Beijing. Their prices are high for that market and yet somehow they're always very busy.

[jsn117]

and all retail establishments on major/famous streets