McDonald’s Outdoing Rivals

McDonald’s Corporation’s (MCD) comparable sales for the month of October 2009 showed a sluggish growth of 3.3% as against the rise of 8.2% in the same month last year, exposing its sensitivity to rising unemployment, economic downturn, and the discount war amongst fast-food chains to lure consumers.
 
The company faces stiff competition from Burger King Holdings Inc. (BKC), Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, Inc. (WEN) and Yum! Brands Inc. (YUM). However, these quick-service operators are faring better than casual dining restaurant chains, such as Cosi Inc. (COSI) and Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Inc. (RRGB), as cash-strapped consumers are trading towards fast-food centers due to relative cheap dining options. 

System-wide sales at McDonald’s worldwide restaurants climbed 10.3% for the month of October. However, in constant currencies, the rate of increase in system-wide sales dipped to 5.2%.
 In the United States , comparable sales remained flat falling 0.1% in October (versus 5.3% increase last year for the comparable month). New menu products, including Angus Third Pounders and McCafe premium coffee line-up continued to support the month's results. 

The fast-food giant had earlier indicated that U.S. sales for the month of October would be weak. Still the month’s result fared better than the overall quick-service restaurant industry. 

In Europe, comparable sales increased 6.4% in October (versus 9.8% increase last year for the comparable month) fueled by strong performance in the U.K. , Germany and France . A variety of mid-tier items and premium menu options contributed to sales. 
Comparable sales in Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA) rose 4.7% in October (versus 11.5% increase last year for the comparable month) driven by Australia and Japan, partly offset by China.