McDonald's Corporation announced results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2015. Global comparable sales increase of 4%, reflecting positive comparable sales in all segments.
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Consolidated revenues decrease of 5% (increase of 7% in constant currencies). Consolidated operating income decrease of 2% (increase of 10% in constant currencies).
Diluted earnings per share of $1.40, an increase of 28% (44% in constant currencies), due in part to a benefit from comparison to the prior year's increase in tax reserves related to certain foreign tax matters.
the company returned $3.1 billion to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends. This brings the year-to-date return to shareholders to $7.1 billion against our targeted return of $8-9 billion in 2015.
In the U.S., third quarter comparable sales increased 0.9%, the segment's first quarterly comparable sales increase in two years. The introduction of the new Premium Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Deluxe sandwich and breakfast, including a return to the classic recipe ingredients for McDonald's iconic Egg McMuffin, contributed to the segment's performance.
U.S. third quarter operating income declined 1% as a result of our incremental investment in wages and benefits for all eligible company-operated restaurant employees, which is designed to improve restaurant performance and enhance our employer brand. Moving forward, rebuilding customer traffic remains a top priority for the segment.
Comparable sales for the International Lead Markets segment increased 4.6% for the third quarter led by strong performance in Australia, the U.K. and Canada and positive results in Germany. Third quarter operating income decreased 11% (increased 5% in constant currencies). Positive consumer response to multiple menu, service and value initiatives throughout most of the segment contributed to the segment's performance.
In the High Growth Markets segment, third quarter comparable sales increased 8.9%, reflecting very strong comparable sales performance in China and positive performance in most other markets.
Operating income increased 39% (68% in constant currencies). Emphasis on value and breakfast during the quarter contributed to China's sales recovery. ■