McDonald's Corp. (Oak Brook, Ill.) released its fourth quarter and year-ended results, reporting healthy growth fueled by global comparable sales increases.
“McDonald's 2009 results reflect the broad-based strength of our global business,” says ceo Jim Skinner. “McDonald's profitability increased as we marked our sixth consecutive year of positive comparable sales in every geographic segment and generated higher global revenues, operating income and earnings per share in constant currencies – all tremendous accomplishments given the tough global economy.”
Among its sales figures, McDonald’s global comparable sales increased 3.8 percent for the year, fueled by a 2.6 percent growth in the U.S., 5.2 percent in Europe and 3.4 percent in the Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa region.
For the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, 2009, global comparable sales rose 2.3 percent, with all segments reporting positive results.
In addition, the fast-food giant says it served 60 million customers per day in 2009, an increase of 2 million per day over last year.
Addressing the New Year, Skinner says, “We will continue our fiscal discipline by investing prudently and returning excess cash to shareholders. I am confident that the collective efforts of our franchisees, suppliers and employees will continue to drive value for all stakeholders.”