The American fast-food giant McDonald's saw its global sales decline further in the fourth quarter due to restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic, even though they increased in the United States thanks to its drive-thru counters.
On a like-for-like basis, the barometer most closely scrutinized by the markets, McDonald's sales fell 1.3% over the quarter over one year due to a drop in international sales which plunged 7.4% for restaurants managed directly by the group and 3.6% for those operated by franchisees.
Read also: McDonald's takes advantage of the rebound in sales in the United States but is cautious about Covid-19
This decline in sales abroad was particularly driven "
by France, Germany, Italy and Spain,
" said the group in a statement Wednesday.
On the other hand, sales continued to progress in Australia and the United Kingdom and especially in the United States where they rose by 5.5%, saved by the crowds at the "
drive-through
", these counters where you can order. his hamburger without leaving his car and by the development of deliveries.
“
After the resurgence of Covid-19 throughout the quarter, there were numerous government restrictions on restaurant opening hours, limited catering capacity in most countries and sometimes mandatory room closures, including particularly internationally,
”regrets the group.
