- Global comparable sales up 7.2% for December and positive for every month of 2006
- U.S. comparable sales -- up 6.9% for the month, 5.9% for the fourth quarter and 5.2% for the year
- Europe's comparable sales -- up 8.2% for December, 7.3% for the quarter and 5.8% for the year
- Fourth quarter 2006 earnings per share are expected to be $1.00, including $0.61 per share of income from continuing operations -- a 30% increase compared with the prior year's results -- and a $0.39 per share gain relating to the Chipotle exchange
McDonald's announced that global comparable sales rose 7.2% in December 2006, on top of a 5.0% increase achieved for December 2005. Global comparable sales for the fourth quarter and year were strong at 6.3% and 5.7%, respectively.
McDonald's CEO Jim Skinner had this to say: "Our steadfast focus on delivering great tasting food along with an exceptional restaurant experience generated strong comparable sales across all geographic segments in 2006. McDonald's performance for the year reflects our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and the strength of our global alignment around the Plan to Win."
In the U.S., comparable sales rose 6.9% in December, as customers continued to enjoy McDonald's signature breakfast line-up, unique Snack Wrap and wide variety of premium chicken options on the menu.
Skinner continued, "Europe generated an impressive 5.8% annual comparable sales increase in 2006 -- the segment's highest annual result in nearly 15 years. Europe ended 2006 with comparable sales rising 8.2% in December, fueled by strong performance across the continent. Customer enthusiasm for Germany's Monopoly game, seasonal menu offerings in France and the U.K. and a strong post-holiday shopping season contributed to results for the month."
In Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa, China's renewed emphasis on branded affordability, along with positive results in Japan and Australia, drove comparable sales up 4.8% in December.
Skinner also mentioned: "We begin 2007 from a position of strength and remain focused on providing relevant menu choices and everyday affordability to serve the needs of our customers. I am confident that we can continue our momentum as we enter the New Year with ongoing dedication to outstanding restaurant execution."
