McDonald´s: Reports Second Quarter 2013 Results

Oak Brook / IL. (mdc) McDonald´s Corporation announced results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2013. For the quarter, the Company posted higher revenues, operating income and earnings per share compared with the prior year. «McDonald´s results for the quarter reflect our efforts to strengthen our business momentum for the long-term», said McDonald´s President and Chief Executive Officer Don Thompson. «We remain strategically focused on the global growth priorities that help us better serve our customers. While the informal eating out market remains challenging and economic uncertainty is pressuring consumer spending, we´re continuing to differentiate the McDonald´s experience by uniting consumer insights, innovation and execution». Second Quarter results included:

• Global comparable sales increase of 1,0 percent
• Consolidated revenues increase of two percent (two percent in constant currencies)
• Consolidated operating income increase of two percent (three percent in constant currencies)
• Diluted earnings per share of 1,38 USD, up five percent (six percent in constant currencies)
• Returned 1,2 billion USD to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases

In the U.S., second quarter comparable sales rose 1,0 percent while operating income was relatively flat. During the quarter, new product introductions across the four key growth categories of chicken, beef, breakfast and beverages, ongoing support for the Dollar Menu and greater accessibility to McDonald´s classic core favorites supported the segment´s sales performance. While the U.S. grew comparable sales and continued to outpace the competition, sales results were impacted by the comparison against prior year promotional activity. Moving forward, U.S. business initiatives are designed to satisfy evolving customer expectations through a balanced approach to value, variety and convenience.

For the quarter, Europe´s comparable sales were down 0,1 percent as negative results in Germany and France were nearly offset by solid performance in the U.K. and Russia. Looking ahead, Europe remains focused on reigniting momentum with enhanced premium beverage and menu items and everyday affordability options across all dayparts delivered through an enhanced restaurant experience. While Europe´s top-line results continue to be impacted by the challenging consumer environment, second quarter operating income increased five percent (up five percent in constant currency) and drove the majority of the Company´s operating income growth for the period.

In Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA), second quarter comparable sales declined 0,3 percent primarily due to negative results in China, Australia and Japan nearly offset by positive performance in many other markets. The segment´s quarterly operating income declined one percent (up three percent in constant currencies). APMEA remains focused on driving demand and profitability with innovative daypart initiatives, comprehensive value platforms and market-leading conveniences.

Don Thompson concluded, «While our consolidated results this quarter were positive, global comparable sales for July are expected to be relatively flat. Based on recent sales trends, our results for the remainder of the year are expected to remain challenged. Throughout McDonald´s history, we have succeeded in a variety of operating and economic environments. I am confident that our System, global infrastructure and the unique and evolving McDonald´s brand experience will enable us to deliver sustained profitable growth for the long-term».