OAK BROOK, ILL. — The launch of Fish McBites failed to net a profitable February for McDonald’s Corp., who reported that comparable U.S. sales for the month fell 3.3% while global sales dipped 1.5%.
The decrease reflected a negative calendar shift, as February last year included an extra day with leap year. Excluding the impact, the company reported flat sales in the United States compared to a strong prior-year performance.
“While February’s results reflect difficult prior-year comparisons, we remain confident in the fundamental strength of McDonald’s business,” said Don Thompson, president and chief executive officer. “We have the operating experience to manage through the current challenging environment and the right strategies in place to grow the business for the long term.”
Citing pressures from competition, McDonald’s reported a 1.9% decrease in global comparable sales in January and a 1% decline in net income during fiscal 2012.
Earlier this month, the chain revealed plans to trim its menu of Chicken Selects and the Fruit & Walnut Salad from U.S. restaurants.