McDonald's Goes 12 Months Without U.S. Sales Growth; Execs Promise Customization and 'Convenient' Payments Even though McDonald's same-stores sales declined in October, the fast-food chain was able to beat analysts' expectations.

By Kate Taylor

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

McDonald's sales slump has continued into October. On the bright side, the month wasn't as terrible as expected.

McDonald's global comparable sales fell 0.5 percent in October, a lesser drop than the 2.2 percent analysts were predicting.

Sales in Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA) suffered the most, falling 4.2 percent. China and Japan are still struggling following the chicken supplier scandal in China this summer. However, Australia had a strong quarter, with McDonald's launching a higher-price customization menu that allowed customers to do add toppings like guacamole and pineapple to their burgers.

Related: McDonald's Tries to Tell Haters That 'Lovin' Beats Hatin''

In the U.S., sales dropped 1 percent, marking the 12th straight month without domestic sales growth. In an attempt to reverse the negative trend, McDonald's is revamping marketing and organizational structures, as well as simplifying the menu.

"Today's consumers increasingly prefer customizable food options, dining in a contemporary, inviting atmosphere and using more convenient ways to order and pay for their meals," said McDonald's CEO Don Thompson. "At McDonald's, we are diligently working to bring these elements of the customer experience to life through McDonald's Experience of the Future."

In October, McDonald's reported a global comparable sales decline of 3.3 percent. In addition to bad press and distrustful customers following the chicken scandal in China, franchisees blamed the poor quarter on overcomplicated menus, "idiotic" corporate marketing plans and a lack of corporate leadership.

Related: Burger King Posts Strong U.S. Sales Growth as McDonald's Flounders

Kate Taylor

Reporter

Kate Taylor is a reporter at Business Insider. She was previously a reporter at Entrepreneur. Get in touch with tips and feedback on Twitter at @Kate_H_Taylor. 

Editor's Pick

Related Topics

Living

The Coolest Way to Commute Is Less Expensive Than Ever

Gift yourself a better commute with $1,500 off this eBike.

Business Ideas

55 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2023

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2023.

Marketing

Don't Just Babble on LinkedIn — You Need to Carve Out Your Own Niche. Here's Why.

To ultimately unlock the full potential of your LinkedIn experience, you need to establish yourself as a thought leader in a specific niche. This is why (and how).

Living

How to Start a 'Million Dollar' Morning Routine

Restructure your morning with a few simple steps that may help to amplify your energy.

Side Hustle

Anyone Can Start a Passive Income Side Hustle For Easy Money — But Only If You Know These 5 Essential Tips First.

The rise of digital automation technology has made starting a passive income side hustle easier and more accessible than ever before.