A positive performance in the UK helped to drive global comparables sales at McDonald’s up 1.2% in April, offsetting flat sales in the US.
Europe’s comparable sales rose 0.3% in April against a 2.4% decline in the same month last year, as positive performance in the UK and France was mostly offset by negative results in Germany.
The company said that strong promotional performance, value menu enhancements and growth at breakfast contributed to the segment’s results.
US comparable sales were flat as industry dynamics remained challenging. McDonald’s US said it remained focused on strengthening its appeal to customers through “quality food, outstanding serviceand good value”. During the month, the US featured McDonald’s popular breakfast options complemented by a McCafé coffee promotion and introduced a new premium sandwich, the Bacon Clubhouse.
Comparable sales in APMEA increased 2.9% in April. Strong results in China,including comparison against the prior year impact from Avian influenza, and positive results in Australia and many other markets were partially offset by ongoing weakness in Japan. Convenience initiatives, enhanced value offerings and McDonald’s menu variety contributed to the segment’s monthly performance.
Systemwide sales for the month increased 2.5%.
McDonald’s president and chief executive Don Thompson said: “We are strengthening our business plans by emphasizing customer-driven strategies. We remain focused on delivering an outstanding restaurant experience by serving our customers their favourite McDonald’s food and drinks and offering compelling value, choice and convenience to create easy, memorable experiences.”
