News

McDonald's introduces 'Flavors of Summer' items

May 9, 2012

McDonald's has introduced its new McCafe Cherry Berry Chiller and Blueberry Banana Nut Oatmeal as part of its 'Flavors of Summer' limited time menu line-up.

The McCafe Cherry Berry Chiller is now available nationwide, and is made to order with 100-percent fruit juice that combines cherries and raspberries in an icy blend. It is available all day at participating McDonald's restaurants nationwide through Sept. 3, while supplies last.

Available to McDonald's guests later this month, the Blueberry Banana Nut Oatmeal features fresh blueberries and walnuts along with a hint of real banana. Made to order, McDonald's new oatmeal provides two servings of whole grain and about a quarter cup of blueberries for 290 calories. The new oatmeal will be available all day at participating McDonald's restaurants through Aug. 3, while supplies last, for a suggested retail price of $2.49.

"At McDonald's, fruit continues to come to life and this summer we are celebrating with two new menu choices," said Cindy Goody, PhD, MBA, RD, LDN, senior director of Nutrition for McDonald's USA LLC. "The new Blueberry Banana Nut Oatmeal and Cherry Berry Chiller help make the delicious flavors of fruit more accessible and convenient. Both options support McDonald's ongoing commitment to offer customers a variety of affordable and great-tasting menu choices."

Nutrition information for both is available at McDonalds.com/nutrition and on McDonald's new mobile app.

Chicken items, Angus burger drive McDonald's April sales

McDonald's Corporation announced global comparable sales growth of 3.3 percent in April, broken down by segment as:

• U.S. up 3.3 percent;
• Europe up 3.5 percent; and
• Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa up 1.1 percent

"Our focus on delivering great tasting food and an exceptional restaurant experience generated positive global comparable sales results in April," said Jim Skinner, CEO. "Amidst a challenging global economic environment, McDonald's ongoing commitment to optimizing the menu, modernizing the restaurant experience and broadening accessibility will enable us to continue to satisfy the evolving needs of our customers."

U.S. comparable sales rose 3.3 percent in April behind its everyday value offerings, including the 20-piece Chicken McNuggets, beverage and breakfast offerings, as well as this month's featured premium chicken sandwich and Angus burger items.

Europe posted a 3.5 percent increase in comparable sales with each of the segment's major markets – France, the U.K., Germany and Russia – contributing. Customer enthusiasm for the latest addition of Monopoly in Germany and the U.K., premium food events in France and Russia, as well as the ongoing benefits of restaurant reimaging fueled results for the month.

Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA) reported a comparable sales increase of 1.1 percent for April with positive results in China and many other markets partially offset by negative results in Japan. Throughout the segment, APMEA continues to focus on daypart value programs, locally-relevant menu variety, convenience and service enhancements.

Systemwide sales for the month increased 2.2 percent, or 5.5 percent in constant currencies.

Read more about food and beverage launches and operations management.