Final answer:
McDonald's used a strategic approach to enter the Indian market, focusing on family-friendly and high-quality offerings, addressing the need for vegetarian options, and catering to the preference for dining as a family. The company established its franchising foothold by positioning itself as a value-driven and customer-centric brand.
Step-by-step explanation:
The strategic approach that McDonald's used to enter the Indian market and establish its franchising foothold involved several key elements. Firstly, McDonald's positioned itself as a family restaurant that prohibited smoking and served no alcohol, which aligned with the cultural preferences and values of the Indian market. Secondly, the company conducted research that revealed a lack of awareness about the quality of its food, leading McDonald's to launch an advertising campaign focused on familiarizing customers with the quality of its offerings. Additionally, the company addressed the need for a larger variety of vegetarian options in its menu, catering to the dietary preferences of the Indian population. Finally, McDonald's recognized that eating out in India was primarily a family affair, leading them to introduce the 'Happy Price Menu' and focus on providing a hassle-free and enjoyable dining experience.