McDonald’s has reported a 9 per cent increase in third-quarter net income, with strong international sales helping offset softer trading in its home US market.

For the quarter ended September 30, net income reached $2.49 billion, up from $2.28 billion a year earlier, with revenue increasing 1 per cent to $7.16 billion. 

Global comparable sales grew 1.5 per cent, driven largely by international markets. International Developmental Licensed Markets recorded the strongest performance, with comparable sales rising 4.2 per cent, while International Operated Markets grew 1.4 per cent.

Japan led growth among developmental licensed markets, while Germany and Australia supported performance in operated markets. However, weaker trading in China and France partially offset the gains.

Meanwhile, the US remained a challenging market, with comparable sales declining 0.2 per cent as lower customer visits offset higher average spending. 

Global systemwide sales, including franchised restaurants, increased 4 per cent to more than $38 billion.

“McDonald’s delivered another quarter of global growth, with solid performance across much of our international business,” said Chris Kempczinski, chairman and CEO

“In the US, we’re encouraged by improvement as the quarter progressed following our intervention on value. We’re focused on building from here, strengthening the business today and investing in the next chapter of growth.”

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