McDonald's reported mixed results for the second quarter of 2026, with earnings per share coming in at $3.38 adjusted, surpassing analyst expectations of $3.32, while revenue totaled $7.10 billion, slightly below the anticipated $7.13 billion [1]. Net income for the quarter was $2.36 billion, or $3.32 per share, up from $2.25 billion, or $3.14 per share, a year earlier. Net revenue rose 4% to $7.1 billion [1]. Global same-store sales increased by 1.3%, meeting Wall Street's expectations, but U.S. same-store sales growth slowed to 0.8%. The company noted that while the average check rose, traffic to its domestic restaurants declined [1].
In response to the slowing U.S. performance, McDonald's announced that Skye Anderson, a 26-year veteran of the company, will assume the role of president of its U.S. business, effective immediately. Anderson succeeds Joe Erlinger, who led the division for more than six years. CEO Chris Kempczinski stated, "While our playbook is working around the world, we see an opportunity to raise the bar in the U.S. and accelerate performance in our largest market" [1].
The company saw stronger results internationally, with its operated markets segment reporting same-store sales growth of 1.5% and its international developmental licensed markets division seeing same-store sales rise 1.9% [1]. In early May, McDonald's launched a new drink lineup in the U.S., but faced tough comparisons with the prior year's global limited-time meal tie-in with the "Minecraft" movie [1].
Shares of McDonald's rose 2% in premarket trading following the earnings announcement [1]. At its biennial worldwide convention in June, the company unveiled a new growth strategy focused on a new restaurant design, improved food and drinks, consumer-led innovation, and enhanced customer service, aiming to become diners' first choice every time [1].
CONCLUSION
McDonald's delivered a solid earnings beat but faced slowing U.S. same-store sales, prompting leadership changes and a renewed growth strategy. International segments outperformed the domestic market, and investors responded positively with a 2% premarket share rise. The company is positioning itself for accelerated U.S. performance and continued global growth.