McDonald's reports global comparable sales up 7.1 percent In January

McDonald's Corporation announced that global comparable sales increased 7.1 percent in January, with worldwide sales up 2.6 percent for the month.

In the US, comparable sales rose 5.4 percent in January. Value across the menu along with the popularity of McDonald's core menu and breakfast drove results.

Europe, the UK, France, and Russia led January's 7.1 percent comparable sales increase. Across Europe, the combination of premium menu offerings, classic favourites and everyday affordability continue to deliver results.   

January comparable sales were up 10.2 percent in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa due to strong sales growth in Australia, China and many other countries.  Locally relevant chicken and beef choices, convenient operating hours and Chinese New Year promotions contributed to January's performance.   

McDonald's Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner said, ''For the month of February, it's important to note that comparable sales will be negatively impacted by about 4 percentage points as prior year results included one extra day due to leap year. This compares with a calendar shift benefit of about 2 percentage points in January."