McDonald’s announced plans to launch new value meal bundles across its U.S. restaurants in early 2027. The move follows a 0.2% drop in comparable sales for the quarter ended September 30, even as the company posted stronger earnings.
Test of Fixed‑Price Offers
During a recent investor call, Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski said the chain is testing fixed‑price and mix‑and‑match offers at 1,900 locations. One example pairs a McChicken sandwich with small fries for $3.50. The eight‑week trial is designed to attract price‑sensitive diners and boost traffic.
Quarterly Financial Results
U.S. comparable sales fell 0.2% in the third quarter, but higher average checks helped offset the decline in customer counts. Global comparable sales rose 1.5%, driven by a 1.4% increase in International Operated Markets and a 4.2% gain in International Developmental Licensed Markets.
Revenue grew 1% to $7.16 billion, and net income rose 9% to $2.49 billion. Diluted earnings were $3.51 per share, up from $3.18 a year earlier. Adjusted earnings, which exclude restructuring charges, totaled $3.57 per share.
Management Outlook
“In the U.S., we’re encouraged by improvement as the quarter progressed following our intervention on value,” Kempczinski said in the earnings release. “We’re focused on building from here, strengthening the business today and investing in the next chapter of growth.” The company also restored regional and national app offers and redirected marketing spend toward value meals, helping U.S. same‑store sales turn positive in September and October.
Analysts had expected earnings of $3.38 per share and revenue of $7.28 billion, so McDonald’s beat earnings expectations but fell short of the sales forecast. Shares rose more than 5% in Wednesday morning trading.
Dividend Increase
McDonald’s declared a 4% increase in its quarterly dividend, raising it to $1.93 per share, signaling confidence in its cash flow and long‑term outlook.
The upcoming value bundles aim to provide affordable options for families and individuals while supporting the chain’s broader strategy to grow market share in a competitive fast‑food landscape.
Original reporting: WBAP News/Talk (Dallas-Fort Worth) — read the source article.
