McDonald’s Q1 Financial Results 2019 - UK statement

Paul Pomroy, CEO McDonald’s UK & Ireland:

“We enjoyed a very strong start to the year in the UK with good first quarter sales and guest count growth. March broke all records, driven by a combination of our new Veggie Wrap and the Big Mac with Bacon, showing the value of offering customers choice. We know it is tough on the high street, but we are clear that, alongside our franchisees, we need to maintain investment to succeed. Customers tell us they want choice, value, convenience, so this continues to be our focus going forward.

“In uncertain times value is more important than ever, which is why we are investing in our McCafé range, with sales up 8% year-on-year, showing that you don’t need to pay expensive prices for good coffee – and tomorrow we launch our new Iced Latte to the McCafé menu at great value.

“Customers enjoy the choice and value we offer – but changing times mean they also demand ultimate convenience, so they can enjoy our menu whenever and wherever they want. We continue to invest in our people and in transforming our high street estate, at the same time as investing in digital innovation. The results tell me it’s working: our MyMcDonalds App and McDelivery accounted for nearly one in ten of our sales in Q1.  

“2019 marks our 45th birthday in the UK. As we look forward to 50, we are focused on keeping in step with changing times; doing the right thing by investing in our supply chain so that we meet customer expectations on sustainability. For example, by the end of the summer we will have completed the rollout of paper straws to all of our restaurants.

“We live in challenging times, but I am confident that we have the firepower and strength to continue to deliver for our customers and our people.”