OAK BROOK, Ill., July 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- McDonald's Corporation today announced strong operating results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2009, driven by positive global comparable sales in every area of the world. In constant currencies, the Company posted higher revenues, operating income and earnings per share compared with the prior year.
"We're driving results by staying focused on our global business strategy, the Plan to Win," said Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner. "In today's economic environment, our performance speaks to the strength of our plan and McDonald's ongoing commitment to our customers around the world."
McDonald's reported the following second quarter highlights:
- Global comparable sales increased 4.8% with the U.S. up 3.5%, Europe up 6.9% and Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 4.4%
- Consolidated operating income increased 2% (11% in constant currencies)
- Earnings per share were $0.98, including $0.09 per share of negative impact from foreign currency translation and $0.01 per share of incremental income related primarily to the sale of Redbox Automated Retail, LLC and also related to the developmental license transaction in Indonesia. Second quarter 2008 earnings of $1.04 per share included a $0.10 per share gain from the Company's sale of its minority interest in Pret A Manger
- Approximately $1.4 billion returned to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends
- On July 22, McDonald's Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.50 per share of common stock, payable on September 15, 2009 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 1, 2009
Jim Skinner continued, "As consumers find themselves more cash-strapped and time-challenged, they continue to count on McDonald's for value, convenience and variety across our menu. The ongoing appeal of McDonald's is a testament to the dedication of our owner/operators, suppliers and employees who provide an exceptional restaurant experience for each customer, every time."
McDonald's U.S. delivered solid comparable sales for the second quarter and drove operating income up 5%. The U.S. business gained market share during the quarter with a balanced focus on classic menu favorites like the Big Mac, beverage value offerings and the national launch of the McCafe premium coffee line-up.
McDonald's Europe delivered strong second quarter comparable sales led by performance in the U.K., France and Russia. In constant currencies, Europe's second quarter operating income rose 10%. Alignment behind Europe's key priorities of enhancing local relevance, upgrading the customer and employee experience and building brand transparency continues to deliver results.
In Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA), Australia led the segment's second quarter operating income increase of 34% in constant currencies. Emphasis on core menu favorites, convenience, value and breakfast, along with a sharp focus on improving operations and customer service, contributed to results.
Jim Skinner concluded, "I am pleased with McDonald's results and remain confident in our outlook for the year.