McDonald's brings in sales help.

Byline: Josh Kosman

McDonald's Corp. has called in Morgan Stanley for help in selling its so-called Partner Brands restaurant chains after its own sale efforts failed, sources said.

The world's largest restaurant company has spent the past month shopping its non-McDonald's properties, including Boston Market, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Donatos Pizzeria. In addition, the company has a minority ownership interest in U.K.-based Pret ? Manger.

McDonald's this week met at its Oak Brook, Ill.-based offices with a throng of Morgan Stanley bankers, a well-placed source said. Books have gone out from Morgan Stanley, and first-round bids will likely be due in …