English: McDonalds' sign in Harlem. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Consumers Enjoying New Menu Items At McDonalds
With the addition of McDonalds new premium menu items, such as Chicken McWraps, Egg White Delight sandwiches and blueberry pomegranate smoothies, consumers now have the option of choosing healthier menu options. This is an important factor for many of today's families, especially health conscious adults; however, these healthier food options are definitely something that many others are also finding very appealing.
For the month of May, McDonalds reported an increase in sales of 2.6 percent globally, at same store, established locations. This is an amazing increase of 1.9% more than analysts had expected. Using same store sales is an important factor in determining future stability and sales for the fast-food chain because it removes sales figures from closed or newly established locations which can alter sales numbers reflecting consumer appeal.
In addition to increases in overall global sales, McDonalds reported an increase in the U.S. of 2.4 percent due to their new innovative and higher price-point menu selections. Again, a significant increase over what analysts had projected. With McDonalds pulling in even higher sales and consumers clearly showing an interest in these healthier options, McDonalds stock (MCD), gained 1.7%.
Today's consumers are definitely interested in value, which is something McDonalds has always strived to market; however, healthier food choices might encourage many people to spend a little more money in order to take advantage of the selection on McDonalds' premium menu offerings. At this point, the indication certainly seems to favor McDonalds stock holding strong, not only in the US, but also in other global markets.
Investors say 'da' to McDonald's