Global Comparable Sales Drive McDonald’s Q1 Earnings

23/04/08 McDonald’s Corporation has announced strong operating results for the first quarter, fueled by global comparable sales.

"We delivered strong first quarter results, driven by comparable sales and guest count increases across all geographic segments and outstanding international operating performance," said Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner. "During the quarter, we welcomed more guests into our restaurants around the world – serving 2.5 million more customers per day compared with the same period in the prior year – and grew operating income by 24%. These results are a clear indication that our Plan to Win continues to work."

McDonald’s reported the following first quarter highlights:
• Global comparable sales increased 7.4%
• Growth in consolidated Company-operated and franchised restaurant margins for the ninth consecutive quarter
• Consolidated operating income increased 24% (16% in constant currencies)
• Earnings per share were $0.81, up 31% versus $0.62 in 2007, and included $0.05 per share of currency benefit
• The Company repurchased $2 billion of stock and paid a quarterly dividend of $0.375 per share, totaling approximately $430 million

McDonald’s first quarter performance reflects the power of the Company’s global restaurant operations. For the quarter, Europe and Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa both delivered double-digit revenue and operating income growth. Europe’s revenues rose 23% (11% in constant currencies) during the quarter to nearly $2.4 billion, fueled by an 11.1% comparable sales increase – the highest in the segment’s history. Europe’s results reflect broad-based strength throughout the segment, led by France, the U.K. and Germany. For the month of April, Europe’s comparable sales are expected to be in the range of 5.5% to 6.5%, reflecting the impact of the change in timing of the Easter holiday from April in 2007 to March in 2008.

In Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa, comparable sales rose 9.4%, boosting the segment’s quarterly revenues by 24% (16% in constant currencies) to over $1 billion. Strong performance in Australia, China and most other markets contributed to these results. Comparable sales for Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa remain strong and are expected to increase 6.5% to 7.5% for the month of April.

McDonald’s U.S. delivered solid quarterly results with comparable sales up 2.9% and operating income increasing 5%. The strategies of everyday affordability, menu variety and convenience enabled the U.S. to build market share during the quarter. While comparable sales for March were slightly negative, April comparable sales are expected to improve to 2% to 2.5%. In the current environment, McDonald’s remains focused on what’s most important – the customer. The Company will continue to provide a relevant restaurant experience that resonates with customers and leverages the strength of our 3-tiered menu.

Skinner said, "McDonald’s ongoing financial performance is a testament to the strength of our business model and the effectiveness of the Plan to Win. We run our business for the long-term with sound strategies to deliver sustained profitable growth for our system and our shareholders. During the first quarter, we continued to strengthen shareholder returns by returning nearly $2.5 billion through dividends and share repurchases combined.

"Last week, the McDonald's System gathered together for our biennial Worldwide Owner/Operator Convention. The energy and alignment that I experienced during our meeting reinforced my optimism in McDonald's. I am confident that our proven Plan to Win business drivers will continue to deliver shareholder value into the future."