The FINANCIAL -- McDonald's Corporation announced on November 9 that global comparable sales rose 3.3% in October. Performance by segment was as follows:

    --  U.S. relatively flat at (0.1%)
    --  Europe up 6.4%

    --  Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 4.7%

"Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and McDonald's is delivering what they want," said Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner. "Our everyday, predictable value, outstanding menu and convenience continue to make us the preferred choice for a growing number of customers."

Against a strong prior year performance, U.S. comparable sales were relatively flat in October but continued to outpace the overall quick-service restaurant industry. Customers' ongoing appetite for the Dollar Menu, premium Angus burgers and McCafe espresso-based coffees supported the month's results.

In Europe, comparable sales rose 6.4% for the month, driven by positive results in the U.K., France and Germany. Throughout Europe, premium menu options, iconic core products and an expanding line of mid-tier offerings - all at a good value - contributed to October sales.

The 4.7% increase in Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa's October comparable sales was fueled by Japan and Australia, partly offset by China. Across the segment, core menu, value, convenience and breakfast drove the region's performance.

Systemwide sales rose 10.3%, or 5.2% in constant currencies, for the month.

Definitions

    --  Comparable sales represent sales at all restaurants in operation at
        least thirteen months including those temporarily closed, excluding the
        impact of currency translation.  Some of the reasons restaurants may be
        temporarily closed include reimaging or remodeling, rebuilding, road
        construction and natural disasters.  Management reviews the increase or
        decrease in comparable sales compared with the same period in the prior
        year to assess business trends.

    --  Constant currency results exclude the effects of currency translation
        and are calculated by translating current year results at prior year
        average exchange rates.

    --  Systemwide sales include sales at all restaurants, whether operated by
        the Company or by franchisees.  While franchised sales are not recorded
        as revenues by the Company, management believes the information is
        important in understanding the Company's financial performance because
        these sales are the basis on which the Company calculates and records
        franchised revenues and are indicative of the financial health of the
        franchisee base.

    --  The number of weekdays and weekend days can impact our reported
        comparable sales.  In October 2009, this calendar shift/trading day
        adjustment consisted of one less Wednesday and one more Saturday
        compared with October 2008.  The resulting adjustment varied by area of
        the world, ranging from approximately +1.0% to +1.7%.  In addition, the
        timing of holidays can also impact comparable sales.

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