McDonald's Corporation announced today that comparable sales for McDonald's restaurants worldwide increased 8.2 percent for the month and 6.3 percent for the quarter. Global system-wide sales for McDonald's restaurants increased 12.7 percent in March (9.4 percent in constant currencies) and 10.3 percent for the first quarter (7.5 percent in constant currencies). "We delivered strong global sales for the first three months of 2007," says McDonald's CEO Jim Skinner. "Our ongoing business momentum continues to reflect the benefit of combined initiatives under McDonald's Plan to Win. Our top-line results are a testament to the collective strength of our relevant menu, innovative marketing and convenience and value strategies."

McDonald's U.S. posted a 6.2 percent comparable sales gain in March. The ongoing appeal of new products, such as the Snack Wrap, core menu favorites, and McDonald's everyday affordability continues to drive performance and generate increased customer visits.

"In Europe, we achieved an 11.2 percent comparable sales increase for March, reporting positive results across the segment led by France, Germany, the U.K. and Russia," Skinner says. "Our emphasis on featuring a variety of premium products and compelling value options along with exciting marketing promotions continues to attract customers to our restaurants."

In Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa, comparable sales rose 9.6 percent in March, fueled by strong performance in Japan and China as well as positive results throughout the segment.

"Overall, I am pleased with our sales results and am confident in our ability to continue building our business," he says. "McDonald's holistic approach to enhancing customer relevance across all elements of our brand is resonating with consumers around the world. We remain committed to delivering long-term profitable growth for all McDonald's stakeholders through exceptional customer focus and ongoing financial discipline."