Menu changes boost profit

Wednesday, April 14, 2004 | 9:04 a.m.

OAK BROOK, Ill. -- McDonald's Corp., the world's largest restaurant chain, Tuesday said first-quarter net income rose to about 40 cents a share, beating analysts' estimates, because of strong sales in its U.S. stores.

The company was expected to earn 37 cents a share, the average estimate of 19 analysts polled by Thomson Financial. McDonald's had net income of $327.4 million, or 26 cents a share, in the first quarter of 2003. Sales in the United States, McDonald's biggest market, rose 14 percent in the quarter, the company said in its preliminary earnings statement.

Sales in the United States have increased every month for a year as Chief Executive James Cantalupo introduced new foods such as the McGriddle sandwich and entree-sized salads. Sales in Europe fell 2.9 percent last month. McDonald's has struggled in the United Kingdom and Germany amid slowing economic growth.

Oscar loves forcing developers to sign labor peace agreements, Culinary loves the city's downtown plans and all is forgiven (1 Comment)

15 hours, 29 minutes ago

26 Thu
27 Fri
28 Sat
29 Sun
30 Mon

DJ Battle at Drai's

Drai's Afterhours | 10 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
2012 at Cheyenne Saloon

Cheyenne Saloon | 10 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.
Sampson's Army at the Double Down Saloon

Double Down Saloon | 10 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.