McDonald's posts positive sales in February

McDonald’s Corp. regained some of its same-store sales momentum in February, as its Olympic-theme promotions helped offset weather-related sales softness in the United States while the company’s international divisions continued to execute well.

The world’s largest quick-service chain said global same-store sales increased 4.8 percent in February, including a 0.6-percent uptick in the United States. The positive performance followed a 0.7-percent decrease in domestic same-store sales in January, the third negative result of the previous four months. 

The company said sales in February were helped by demand for core favorites, particularly Chicken McNuggets, which were promoted throughout the month as part of the chain’s sponsorship of the Winter Olympics. McDonald’s also cited McCafe beverages and the Breakfast Dollar Menu, introduced late last year, as sales drivers.

McDonald’s European division posted a 5.4-percent increase in February same-store sales on strong performances in France, the United Kingdom and Russia.

Same-store sales surged 10.5 percent in McDonald’s Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa division. Robust results in Japan, Australia and China contributed to the region’s performance, McDonald’s said, and a shift in Chinese New Year celebrations added to the bottom line.

Systemwide sales rose 11.2 percent in February, or 6.4 percent in constant currencies, the company said.