McDonald’s European operations were the major driver of sales growth at the fast-food giant during 2007.

The company posted global sales growth of 6.8% year-on-year for 2007 with group turnover of at record high of $22.8b (£11.5b).

In Europe, where the company has invested heavily in upgrading its restaurants and has installed options such as free Wi-Fi, sales growth was 7.6%. Growth for the final quarter was “double digit”, the company said.

In contrast, year-on-year growth in the USA was just 3.3% and largely flat in December as consumer concerns over the faltering economy and disruption from severe weather saw a drop in the numbers of people eating out.

Jim Skinner, chief executive of McDonald’s, said: “For the fourth quarter, Europe generated double-digit revenue and operating income growth, driven by positive comparable sales in every market.”

To maintain momentum in Europe, the company plans to invest $800m (£403m) this year and will open 150 new restaurants. 

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By Chris Druce

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