McDonald’s sales down in Australia

McDonald’s Corporation has announced its sales in the Asia-Pacific region are down 2.4%, with the company experiencing negative results in Australia, Japan and China. Globally, its sales decreased 1.8% in October, with US and Europe sales both down 2.2%.

“The McDonald’s System remains focused on serving the evolving needs of our more than 69 million customers daily,” said McDonald’s president and CEO Don Thompson. “Though October’s sales results reflect the pervasive challenges of today’s global marketplace, I am confident that our strategies and the adjustments we are making in response to the current business headwinds will build sales momentum and drive sustained, profitable growth.”

The company said modest consumer demand and heightened competitive activity in the US offset the impact of local Dollar Menu advertising, the Monopoly promotion and the recent launch of the Cheddar Bacon Onion premium sandwiches. McDonald’s says it will continue with its aim to balance everyday value messages with affordable premium menu options.

Although sales in the UK were positive, these were offset by declines across many European markets. In Europe, McDonald’s says it is “reinvigorating its value offerings” by increasing advertising and new meal combinations at various price tiers, featuring core and premium menu items.