McDonald’s reports global like-for-likes up 7.5% in first quarter with strong UK growth, results surpass 2019 levels: McDonald’s has reported global like-for-likes were up 7.5% in its first quarter ending 31 March 2021 – with the UK seeing “strong” growth. Chief executive Chris Kempczinski said: “Our first quarter 2021 global like-for-like sales and revenues surpassed first quarter 2019 levels, even as resurgences and operating restrictions persist in many parts of the world. I continue to be inspired by the resilience of our crew members, franchisees, suppliers and company employees as we lead with our values and stay true to our purpose of feeding and fostering communities. Our teams around the world are focused on executing our ‘Accelerating the Arches’ strategy at the highest level – we’re maximising our marketing in a culturally relevant way, committed to the great tasting customer favourites on our core menu and doubling-down on digital, delivery and drive-thru to create a faster and easier customer experience.” First-quarter like-for-likes were up 13.6% in the US, benefiting from growth in average spend with double-digit positive comparable sales across all dayparts. The company said its strong national menu and marketing offerings, as well as growth in delivery and digital platforms, contributed to the sales growth. Like-for-like sales in the quarter for the “international operated” segment, which includes the UK, were up 0.6%. McDonald’s said the results reflected strong positive like-for-like sales in the UK, Australia and Canada, partly offset by significantly negative comparable sales in France and Germany. McDonald’s said comparable sales in many markets continued to be impacted by varying levels of government-imposed covid-19 restrictions on restaurant operations. In the “international developmental” licensed segment, first-quarter like-for-like sales were up 6.4%. The company said monthly comparable sales results improved sequentially throughout the quarter. The strong quarterly comparable sales were primarily driven by China and Japan. McDonald’s stated: “The company has continued to follow the guidance of expert health authorities to ensure the appropriate precautionary steps are taken to protect the health and safety of our people and our customers. As a result of covid-19 resurgences throughout the quarter, there have been numerous instances of government restrictions on restaurant operating hours, limited dine-in capacity and, in some cases, mandated dining room closures, particularly in the international operated markets. These restrictions are impacting most of the company’s markets across Europe, particularly those with fewer drive-thru restaurant locations. The company expects some restrictions in various markets so long as the covid-19 pandemic continues.”