McDonald’s has reported a net income of $1.98bn for the first quarter (Q1) of 2026, marking a 6% growth compared to $1.86bn in the same quarter last year.
Consolidated operating income also increased from $2.64bn in Q1 2025 to $2.95bn in Q1 2026. This represents a 12% year-on-year (YoY) increase.
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For the quarter that ended on 31 March 2026, the company’s revenue was $6.51bn, up 9% compared to $5.95bn in the same quarter a year ago.
The fast-food giant reported a 3.8% growth in global comparable sales for the quarter. Comparable sales rose 3.9% in both the US and its international operated markets (IOM) while the international development licensed (IDL) segment posted a 3.4% increase.
The company said that performance in the US was mainly supported by “positive check growth”.
In the IOM segment, McDonald’s said almost all countries delivered positive comparable sales.
The UK, Germany and Australia were singled out as leading contributors.
In the IDL markets, Japan led the growth in comparable sales, with all geographic regions in this division recording positive sales trends.
Systemwide sales for the quarter grew 11% YoY to more than $34bn. This represented a 6% increase when measured in constant currencies.
Diluted earnings per share were $2.78, up 7% on the prior year, or 2% in constant currencies.
McDonald’s Corporation chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski said: “McDonald’s delivered this quarter.
“Our 6% global systemwide sales growth shows how we executed with discipline, proving that we can drive results even in a challenging environment.
“And it’s our commitment to going three-for-three that sets McDonald’s apart. Our value leadership, breakthrough marketing, and menu innovation continue to serve up what customers want.”
