McDonald's endures tougher third quarter but UK sales rise
Fast-food chain McDonald's saw strong UK sales in the third quarter of the year to 30 September 2012, despite flat operating profits worldwide.
The UK, Russia and France led the European sector's results, which saw sales grow 1.8% and delivered market share gains despite negative guest traffic.
UK sales were helped by the chain's repositioning as a destination for family meals, as well as the modernisation of stores across the country.
Global net income for the period was £900m ($1.46b), down from £940m ($1.51b) in the same period the year before.
Speaking of the group's global performance, chief executive Don Thompson said: "While our sales momentum and current financial results reflect today's challenging conditions, we continue to see significant long-term opportunities for brand McDonald's and remain confident in the underlying strength of our business model."
By Neil Gerrard
E-mail your comments to Neil Gerrard here.
If you have something to say on this story or anything else join the debate at Table Talk - Caterer's new networking forum. Go to www.catererandhotelkeeper.com/tabletalk
Catererandhotelkeeper.com jobs
Looking for a new job? Find your next job here with Catererandhotelkeeper.com jobs