McDonald's October comps jump 6.9% globally, 5.4% in the U.S

OAK BROOK, ILL. -- Like quick-service rival Burger King, McDonald's Corp., based here, reported this month that its global same-store sales continued to surge in October. McDonald's said U.S. sales for that month were boosted by value-oriented menu items, breakfast offerings and late-night operating hours.

Globally, same-store sales rose 6.9 percent in October, versus the same month a year ago, and in the United States they increased 5.4 percent. Same-store sales rose 6.4 percent in Europe and 9.4 percent in McDonald's Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa region.

Most securities analysts that follow McDonald's said strong sales for the chain of more than 30,000 outlets worldwide are expected through 2009, despite the currently tough restaurant operating environment.

Analyst John Ivankoe at J.P. Morgan said the brand's continued new-product development--with items including the Breakfast Burrito expected for release later this month, a possible Southern Chicken sandwich next year and the probable expanded rollout of the Angus Burger--will continue to drive guest traffic.

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