McDonald's Corporation today announced strong results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2009, fueled by positive comparable sales in every area of the world. In constant currencies, the Company posted higher revenues, operating income and earnings per share compared with the prior year.
"Alignment behind McDonald's long-term business strategy, the Plan to Win, is clear as our growth continues to be a systemwide effort with each area of the world contributing,"said McDonald's Chief Executive Officer, Jim Skinner. "McDonald's global results demonstrate the resilience of our strategies and our ability to execute successfully."
McDonald's reported the following third quarter highlights:
-- Global comparable sales increased 3.8% with the U.S. up 2.5%, Europe up 5.8% and Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 2.2% -- Consolidated operating income increased 6% (11% in constant currencies) over the prior year -- Earnings per share of $1.15, a 10% increase (14% in constant currencies) over the prior year -- The quarterly cash dividend increased 10% to $0.55 per share - the equivalent of $2.20 per share annually - effective fourth quarter 2009 -- Approximately $1.3 billion returned to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends
