McDonald’s global comparable sales for the third quarter of 2015 increased 4% on the corresponding quarter last year.
A statement from the franchise said that this growth reflected positive comparable sales in all segments.
Consolidated revenues decreased by 5% (an increase of 7% in constant currencies) and consolidated operating income decreased 2% (an increase of 10% in constant currencies).
In addition, the McDonald’s returned $3.1 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends.
This brings the year-to-date return to shareholders to $7.1 billion against its targeted return of $8-9 billion in 2015.
McDonald’s President and Chief Executive Officer Steve Easterbrook said that consumers have more choices than ever about where to dine.
“Our operational growth-led turnaround is focused on appealing to customers in the areas that matter most to them – great-tasting, high-quality food, convenience and value.
“I am encouraged by our operating performance for the quarter, with positive comparable sales across all segments, including the US, as well as sales recovery in China following the prior year supplier issue.
“I am confident in the fundamental strength of the McDonald’s system and our ability to drive initiatives that are focused on delivering the greatest benefit for our customers,” he said.
In the US, third quarter comparable sales increased 0.9%, the segment’s first quarterly comparable sales increase in two years.
US third quarter operating income declined 1% as a result of McDonald’s incremental investment in wages and benefits for all eligible company-operated restaurant employees, which is designed to improve restaurant performance and enhance our employer brand.
Moving forward, rebuilding customer traffic remains a top priority for the segment, a statement from McDonald’s said.
Comparable sales for the International Lead Markets segment increased 4.6% for the third quarter led by strong performance in Australia, the UK and Canada and positive results in Germany.
In the High Growth Markets segment, third quarter comparable sales increased 8.9%, reflecting very strong comparable sales performance in China and positive performance in most other markets.
