McDonald’s reported a 1.5% increase in global comparable sales for the third quarter Wednesday, while sales at U.S. restaurants open at least 13 months slipped 0.2%.
The Chicago-based restaurant company said consolidated revenue increased 1% from a year earlier. Global systemwide sales exceeded $38 billion and rose 4%, or 3% in constant currencies. Systemwide sales include revenue at both company-operated and franchised restaurants.
Diluted earnings were $3.51 per share. Excluding items identified by the company, adjusted earnings were $3.57 per share.
The mixed results showed stronger performance outside the United States than in McDonald’s home market. Comparable sales measure revenue at established restaurants and are closely watched because the figure excludes the effect of opening or closing locations. It does not measure changes in customer traffic separately from menu prices.
McDonald’s also increased its quarterly cash dividend by 4% to $1.93 per share. The company has raised its dividend for decades, though future payments remain subject to board approval.
The report arrives as restaurant operators face a cautious U.S. consumer, wage and commodity costs, and competition for value-focused customers. McDonald’s has been emphasizing affordability and its loyalty program, while also investing in digital ordering and restaurant operations.
Because the company’s release combines reported and adjusted figures, investors should distinguish GAAP earnings from measures that exclude certain charges. McDonald’s said the adjusted earnings figure removes items described in its full financial release.
Sources: - McDonald’s Corp., third-quarter 2026 earnings release, Nov. 4, 2026 - McDonald’s corporate news and investor materials