CHICAGO – McDonald's Corp. (MCD) Wednesday posted a 5.7 percent increase in January global comparable sales, helped by demand for breakfast food, extended hours, gift cards and mild U.S. weather.
The world's biggest fast food company said January sales were up 9.7 percent at U.S. restaurants open at least 13 months, but down 0.5 percent in Europe because of weak demand in Britain and Germany.
"We are delighted with January's global sales performance, particularly the exceptional sales results posted in the U.S.," Jim Skinner, chief executive officer, said in a statement.
McDonald's said Britain and Germany faced tough comparisons against a successful national coupon promotion in January 2005.
In the Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa region, comparable-store sales were up 3.3 percent, driven primarily by Australia and China, partly offset by weak results in Japan.
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