McDonald’s global comparable sales dip 1% in Q1 2025 as US market softens

GLOBAL – McDonald’s has reported a 1% decline in global comparable sales for the first quarter of 2025, reflecting a challenging start to the year.

McDonald’s has reported a mixed set of first-quarter results, reflecting growing pressure on consumer spending across key global markets.

The fast-food giant saw its U.S. sales decline by 3.6%, while international operated markets experienced a 1% drop.

The results, however, were measured against a strong first quarter in 2024, which benefitted from an extra day of sales due to the leap year.

Total revenue fell to US$5.95 billion, down from US$ 6.16 billion in the same period last year.

Net income declined to US$1.87 billion from US$1.93 billion year-on-year, highlighting a broader softness in the global quick-service restaurant sector.

Systemwide sales were down 1%, but increased 1% when adjusted for constant currencies.

Despite the overall slowdown, McDonald’s international developmental licensed markets delivered a 3.5% rise in sales, offering a bright spot in an otherwise flat quarter. Consolidated revenues and operating income both fell 3%.

These results include pre-tax restructuring charges of US$66 million for the current year and US$35 million in the prior year, part of the company’s ongoing Accelerating the Organization initiative.

Excluding these charges, operating income declined 2% and remained flat in constant currencies.

Earnings per share also saw a dip, with diluted EPS falling 2% to US$2.60. On a currency-neutral basis, EPS was down 1%.

Despite these headwinds, CEO Chris Kempczinski remained optimistic.

“McDonald’s has a 70-year legacy of innovation, leadership, and proven agility. These qualities give us confidence in our ability to navigate challenging market conditions and continue gaining market share,” he said.

To reinvigorate its U.S. offerings, McDonald’s announced the nationwide rollout of McCrispy Strips, which will become a permanent menu item by May 5.

Select locations have already begun serving the product. Made with 100% white meat and coated in crispy golden-brown breading, the chicken strips feature a bold new black pepper flavour.

“We took our time, listened to our fans, and created something craveable and worth the wait,” said Alyssa Buetkofer, McDonald’s Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer.

The launch aims to boost customer engagement amid growing competition in the chicken category.

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