Even McDonald’s Value Push Couldn’t Prevent a U.S. Sales Decline
U.S. Sales Fell in Quarter
McDonald’s reported a 0.2% decline in U.S. same-store sales for the July-September quarter. It was the Chicago-based burger chain’s first such drop since early 2025. The company brought back deals in its app and emphasized value in its marketing. Those efforts helped move same-store sales into positive territory in September, though they did not prevent a decline for the full quarter.
Fast-Food Spending Under Pressure
The broader U.S. fast-food sector also faced weaker customer activity. Third-quarter foot traffic fell 2.6%, according to restaurant industry consultant Revenue Management Solutions. McDonald’s Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski said companies need to deliver value in the current climate. “The pressure around cost of living isn’t going away,” he said during an investor presentation last month.
Global Sales and Revenue
Outside the United States, McDonald’s same-store sales increased 1.3% over the same period. That contrasted with the decline in U.S. sales. Quarterly revenue rose 1% to $7.16 billion. The total fell short of Wall Street’s expectation of $7.28 billion.
Key points
- U.S. same-store sales fell 0.2% in the July-September quarter.
- App deals and value-focused marketing helped sales turn positive in September.
- U.S. fast-food foot traffic declined 2.6% during the quarter.
- Global same-store sales rose 1.3%, while revenue reached $7.16 billion.