That's a lot of double cheeseburgers

News here that McDonald's sales in February were up more than 11%. I guess this goes to show that even in an economy lurching toward recession, there is still room for growth at some foodservice outlets - and that not all countries of the world decry the "Americanization" of their diets. At least "menu variety" is mentioned as well - we are hoping that is positive for fruits and vegetables as a worthy element of the Golden Arches lineup. From the story from QSR:

McDonald's Corporation announced today that global comparable sales rose 11.7 percent for the month and 8.6 percent for year-to-date February. Systemwide sales for McDonald's worldwide restaurants increased 19.9 percent in February, or 13.2 percent in constant currencies. McDonald's February sales results reflect strong performance across each business segment, as well as a benefit of about 4 percentage points from an extra day due to leap year.

"Our focus on our customers around the world continues to deliver results and drive McDonald's global business," says McDonald's CEO Jim Skinner. "Through the Plan to Win, we're committed to providing our customers the menu variety they want, with the convenience and value they expect from McDonald's."

February comparable sales increased 8.3 percent in the U.S. as McDonald's market-leading breakfast, Premium Roast Coffee and everyday value offerings continue to fuel performance.

In Europe, strong results in the U.K., France, Germany and Russia drove comparable sales up 15.4 percent for the month. Europe's combination of premium beef and chicken menu selections, balanced with everyday affordability, continues to drive results.