full text:
- U.S. comparable sales rose 1.9% for the month
- Europe comparable sales up 8.2% for the month
- APMEA comparable sales increased 7.8% for the month
McDonald's Corporation announced today that global comparable sales rose 5.7% for the month of January. Systemwide sales for worldwide restaurants increased 13.4% in January, or 7.1% in constant currencies.
"We continue to drive our business with an unwavering commitment to our customers," said McDonald's Chief Executive Officer Jim Skinner. "Consumers are busier than ever, and McDonald's is their ideal choice for quick, convenient and affordable meals."
U.S. comparable sales rose 1.9% in January due to the ongoing strength of the Company's breakfast business combined with the everyday appeal of McDonald's Dollar Menu.
Momentum continued in Europe as positive comparable sales in every market contributed to an 8.2% increase in January. France, Germany and the U.K. led Europe's performance. McDonald's unique premium and value products continue to give customers even more reasons to visit our restaurants.
In Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa, January comparable sales increased 7.8% as locally relevant menu options and extended operating hours drove strong performance in Australia, China and many other markets.

   Percent Increase             Comparable          Systemwide Sales
                                   Sales               As     Constant
   Month ended January 31,      2008    2007      Reported    Currency
   --------------------------------------------------------------------
   McDonald's Corporation        5.7     4.9          13.4         7.1
   Major Segments:
     U.S.                        1.9     3.6           2.8         2.8
     Europe                      8.2     6.8          21.7         9.9
     APMEA*                      7.8     4.3          21.0        10.3
   --------------------------------------------------------------------
       * Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa


  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 road construction, reimaging or remodeling,
     rebuilding 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.
  -- Information in constant currency is calculated by translating current
     year results at prior year average exchange rates.
  -- Systemwide sales include sales at all restaurants, including those
     operated by the Company, franchisees and affiliates.  Management
     believes Systemwide sales information is useful in analyzing the
     Company's revenues because franchisees and affiliates pay rent and/or
     royalties that generally are based on a percent of sales with specified
     minimum rent payments.
  -- The number of weekdays, weekend days and timing of holidays can impact
     our reported comparable sales.  In January 2008, this calendar
     shift/trading day adjustment consisted of one more Thursday and one
     less Monday compared with January 2007.  The resulting adjustment
     varied around the world, ranging from approximately 0.0% to +0.2%.

  Upcoming Communications
  McDonald's tentatively plans to release February sales on March 10, 2008.

McDonald's is the leading global foodservice retailer with more than 30,000 local restaurants in more than 100 countries. More than 75% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by franchisees and affiliates.
Visit http://www.mcdonalds.com/ for more information.