McDonald’s Corp.’s continued sales growth led to a 10-percent increase in third-quarter profit, driven largely in the United States by the barbell menu strategy of promoting its Dollar Menu and higher-margin McCafe Frappes and Real Fruit Smoothies, the company said Thursday.
For the third quarter ended Sept. 30, McDonald’s earned $1.39 billion, or $1.29 per share, compared with earnings of $1.26 billion, or $1.15 per share.
Revenue for the latest quarter increased 4 percent to $6.3 billion. Global same-store sales rose 6 percent, comprising gains of 5.3 percent in the United States, 4.1 percent in Europe, and 8.1 percent in the Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa, or APMEA, region.
Consolidated operating income rose 8 percent in the quarter, or 11 percent in constant currencies.
“As we begin the final quarter of 2010, our momentum continues, with October global comparable sales expected to increase 5 percent to 6 percent,” said chief executive Jim Skinner.
The company said it drove results in Europe with restaurant reimagings, core menu items promoted across all dayparts, and extended operating hours.
Gains in the APMEA regions were credited to strong performance in Japan, China and Australia on the strength of daypart expansion and unique limited-time promotions.
Contact Mark Brandau at [email protected].