McDonald's Returns to Sales Growth With Toys, Budget Meals

McDonald's Corp. sales picked up in the latest quarter, suggesting that pop culture-focused collaborations and budget meals are helping to offset diners' economic anxiety.

- Bloomberg

Global sales at restaurants open at least 13 months rose 3.8% in the second quarter, the company said Wednesday. That's higher than the average estimate of analysts polled by Bloomberg. International markets led the company's growth, while the US was slightly ahead of expectations as Americans spent more per trip.

The results ended four quarters of declining or tepid growth as the burger chain dealt with an E. coli outbreak, backlash against American brands in the Middle East and consumer unease about the economy in response to President Trump's trade disputes. Total guest counts around the world rose, chief executive officer (CEO) Chris Kempczinski said on call with analysts.

McDonald's stock rose 2.6% at 9:30 a.m. in New York. The shares had gained 3.1% this year through Tuesday's close, trailing the 7.1% increase in the S&P 500.