McDonald’s Accelerates Mobile

McDonald's Corporation global comparable sales increased 0.5% in November. For the third quarter, the Company posted higher revenues, operating income and earnings per share compared with the prior year. McDonald's is currently working to broaden accessibility through new restaurants and to modernize the customer experience by reinvesting in existing restaurants, including; reimaging, technology and convenience initiatives as a top priority.

In 2013, the company expects to open about 1,500 new restaurants, ending the year at over 35,000. New openings by area of the world include over 225 in the U.S., about 300 in Europe, and more than 750 in APMEA. Approximately one-third of its global openings are in developmental licensed or affiliated markets where they do not invest capital. McDonald’s continues to modernize its existing restaurant base through reimaging more than 1,600 restaurants in 2013. Globally, about two-thirds of its interiors and over half of its exteriors reflect the current contemporary look.

2014 is focused on strengthening key elements of customer service in the U.S. The company’s strategic marketing efforts involve limited time offers and promotions to create energy around its menu news and leveraging kiosks as brand extensions. McCafes and kiosks are aimed to reach customers when, where, and how they want the McDonald's experience the most.

Around the world McDonald’s remains focused on customer experience. Throughout Europe, ongoing efforts are being made to enhance McDonald's experience through menu innovation and marketing to strengthen long term growth. A top priority is to also deliver an experience that meets the evolving tastes and lifestyles of its customers.

In Europe, November's comparable sales increased 1.9% as positive performance in the U.K., France and Russia was somewhat offset by negative results in Germany.  Amid a tepid informal eating out market, Europe delivered positive results by elevating the customer experience with appealing premium, core and value menu options, compelling promotional food events and continued focus on key dayparts.

McDonald's President and Chief Executive Officer Don Thompson stated, "The McDonald's System has an infrastructure built for growth, and we are well-positioned to seize the sizable opportunities that exist in the Informal Eating Out industry.  Today we are investing in our people, our restaurants and our technology to capitalize on those long-term opportunities that will make McDonald's even better and bigger in the future.  While the near-term environment is challenging, we are confident in our ability to create long-term value for our customers, shareholders and the McDonald's System."

The company is the world's leading global foodservice retailer with approximately 35,000 locations serving more than 69 million customers in over 100 countries each day. More than 80% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local men and women.