McDonald's U.S. Sales Dip for First Time Since 2025

McDonald’s reported a 2.6% decline in U.S. foot traffic during the third quarter as customers grappled with rising gas prices and the high cost of living. The Chicago-based company said same-store sales, measured at locations open for at least a year, fell 0.2% from July through September. This marked the first drop in sales for the chain since early 2025, though it outperformed Wall Street expectations of a 0.5% decrease.

The slowdown in customer visits aligns with a wider trend in the industry. Revenue Management Solutions, a restaurant industry consultant, noted that foot traffic across the entire U.S. fast food sector dropped 2.6% during the same period. McDonald’s responded to the pressure by restoring in-app deals and shifting its marketing focus toward value. These efforts helped push same-store sales into positive territory in September, indicating a fragile recovery at the end of the quarter.

Chris Kempczinski, McDonald’s Chairman and CEO, addressed the economic headwinds during an investor presentation last month. “This is the environment that we’re in right now. You have to be on your game and deliver that value,” Kempczinski said. “The pressure around cost of living isn’t going away.” His comments reflect the challenging conditions facing U.S. fast food operators as they try to retain diners who are cutting back on spending.

Globally, the company saw better results. Same-store sales rose 1.3% in the third quarter, with strong performance in Germany and Australia offsetting weakness in France. French operations were impacted by protests that began in September. Financially, McDonald’s revenue rose 1% to $7.16 billion, falling short of the $7.28 billion analysts predicted. Net income increased 9% to $2.49 billion, and the company reported adjusted earnings of $3.57 per share, beating the forecast of $3.38.

Investors responded positively to the earnings report, with shares rising more than 2% before the opening bell on Wednesday. The company’s ability to maintain global growth while U.S. sales slipped underscores the mixed economic landscape for major fast food chains.