McDonalds reports lower global sales for May

McDonald's Corporation has announced that global comparable sales decreased 0.3% in May. Performance by segment was as follows:

• U.S. down 2.2%
• Europe up 2.3%
• Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA) down 3.2%

"McDonald's has embarked on a turnaround plan to reignite our business performance," said Steve Easterbrook, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Our talented franchisees, suppliers and employees are placing renewed emphasis on the basics of great-tasting, high-quality food, compelling value and outstanding service. Our goal is to be a modern, progressive burger company that is responsive to consumers' evolving preferences, provides a contemporary experience for our customers and drives long-term value for our system and our shareholders."

U.S. comparable sales decreased 2.2% in May reflecting negative customer traffic and ongoing competitive activity. To address its current challenges, the U.S. is working to enhance the customer experience with exciting limited-time menu and value options while testing opportunities to expand convenience, personalization and daypart availability to modernize the business.

Europe's comparable sales rose 2.3% in May as strong results in the U.K. and slightly positive performance in Germany and France were partly offset by slightly negative results in Russia. Europe's monthly performance was supported by consistent everyday value offers alongside compelling premium platforms reinforced with effective marketing and promotional execution to drive demand.

In APMEA, comparable sales declined 3.2% in May as strong performance inAustralia was more than offset by continued challenges in Japan and negative performance in China. Strengthening McDonald's quality and value perceptions remains a top priority for APMEA.

Solid comparable sales in McDonald's Other Countries & Corporate segment, which includes Latin America and Canada, contributed positively to the Company's global comparable sales performance for the month.

Systemwide sales for the month decreased 7.2%, or increased 1.8% in constant currencies.