McDonald’s Corporation announced today that global comparable sales
increased 7.7 percent in May and 7.0 percent year-to-date. Systemwide sales for
McDonald’s worldwide restaurants increased 16.0 percent in May, or 9.1 percent
in constant currencies.
    U.S.
comparable sales rose 4.3 percent in May, on top of a strong increase last
year. McDonald’s robust breakfast line-up, new menu items, including the recently
launched Southern Style Chicken biscuit and sandwich, and emphasis on everyday
affordability continue to bring more customers to McDonald’s.
    Momentum continued in Europe as comparable sales
increased 9.6 percent for the month led by the U.K.,
France, and Russia.
The ongoing appeal of locally relevant premium products, classic menu favorites,
and value options available across Europe contributed to
this month’s results.
    Comparable sales for Asia/Pacific, Middle East, and Africa
were up 9.7 percent in May, driven primarily by strong performance in Australia
and many other markets. Throughout the segment, branded value offerings,
breakfast, and extended operating hours are giving customers more reasons to
visit McDonald’s.
    McDonald’s expects the effective tax rate for the second quarter and full
year to be approximately 29 percent to 31 percent.