McDonald's sales grow amid fast-food value wars
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McDonald's released its quarterly earnings May 7, 2026. Photo: Jamie Kelter Davis/Bloomberg via Getty Images
McDonald's rode value meals, loyalty perks and menu innovation to stronger first-quarter sales growth Thursday, signaling consumers are still spending despite persistent economic pressure.
Why it matters: McDonald's results show its affordability strategy is gaining traction with cost-conscious diners squeezed by years of inflation-driven price hikes.
- Fast-food chains are increasingly leaning on new value menu launches, limited-time items and expanded drink offerings to drive traffic as consumers remain selective about spending.
By the numbers: U.S. comparable sales increased 3.9%, in the quarter ended March 31, compared with a 1% decline a year earlier — driven primarily by higher average checks.
- Global comparable sales rose 3.8%, compared with a 1% decline a year earlier.
- Global systemwide sales increased 6% in constant currencies to more than $34 billion.
- Revenue rose 9% to $6.5 billion.
Zoom in: McDonald's loyalty ecosystem continues to scale globally.
- Across 70 loyalty markets, systemwide sales tied to loyalty members topped $9 billion for the quarter and more than $38 billion over the trailing 12 months, the company said.
Between the lines: McDonald's is trying to balance multiple strategies — leaning into value offers while pushing higher-margin menu items like the Big Arch Burger, which debuted during the quarter.
- The company is also expanding into specialty beverages and pop culture-focused promotions.
- McDonald's rolled out new refreshers and crafted sodas nationwide this week, while its K-pop-themed meals debuted March 31 and helped drive the chain's busiest week of 2026 so far, according to Placer.ai analysis.
What they're saying: McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski said the chain's "value leadership, breakthrough marketing, and menu innovation" helped drive growth despite a "challenging environment."
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