McDonald's Corp. announced global comparable sales growth of 7.5 percent in February. Systemwide sales for the month increased 9.4 percent, or 9.7 percent in constant currencies. McDonald's February sales results reflect the benefit of about three percentage points from an extra day due to leap year. “The cornerstone of our ongoing sales momentum is our ability to connect with customers and deliver the menu choices, everyday affordability and convenience they expect from McDonald's," said McDonald's Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner in a prepared statement. "We will continue to grow sales by focusing on the key elements of the Plan to Win as we strive to become our customers' favorite place and way to eat and drink."
In the U.S., comparable sales rose 11.1 percent supported by strong customer demand for Chicken McBites, classic core favorites including Filet-O-Fish, signature beverage offerings, and McDonald's breakfast line-up.
Europe posted a 4.0 percent increase in comparable sales for February led by results in the U.K. and Russia. Severe winter weather in certain markets negatively impacted the segment's overall February results. Across Europe, performance benefited from compelling value menu offerings, fourth-tier products, limited-time food events and the ongoing benefit of modernized locations that are differentiating the McDonald's experience.
Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA) reported a comparable sales increase of 2.4 percent for February led by Australia, somewhat offset by Japan and the shift in timing of Chinese New Year. Throughout APMEA, consumers continued to respond favorably to the region's compelling breakfast and lunch value platforms, great tasting premium menu selections and relevant convenience.
As previously communicated, while McDonald's continues to deliver global top-line sales results, the current operating environment includes persistent economic uncertainty, austerity measures in Europe and commodity and labor cost pressures, particularly in the U.S. These challenges are expected to impact the company's first quarter operating income growth.
