McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) reported its fourth quarter earnings early this morning, indicating that its profits rose 1 percent to a little less than $1.4 billion, compared with $1.38 billion a year ago. It also showed higher revenues and operating income. The company reported earnings per share of $1.38 per share (compared with the consensus of $1.33 per share) and $6.95 billion in revenue. McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) was expected to report $1.33 earnings per share on revenues of $6.9 billion.
Shares of McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) rose slightly in pre-market trading this morning. In its report this morning, the fast food chain also reported that it’s seeing pressure on its top and bottom line growth and that it expects negative same-store sales growth in January.
McDonald’s Corporation (NYSE:MCD) reported that it returned $5.5 billion to shareholders throughout 2012 by repurchasing shares and paying dividends. CEO Don Thompson attributed the company’s growth to paying attention to the wants of its customers.
“McDonald’s continued to grow by remaining focused what matters most to our customers, although our results reflect the impact of the challenging global operating, economic and competitive environment,” Thompson said. “Our overall performance is a testament to the underlying strength of our business and our dedicated system of franchisees, suppliers and employees who continue to drive toward out mission to become our customers’ favorite place and way to eat and drink.”
Thompson also said this year they will invest about $3.2 billion of capital to open 1,500 to 1,600 new restaurants and reinvest in at least 1,600 other existing locations through reimaging.
“Moving forward, we remain focused on seizing the long-term opportunities in the global marketplace by leveraging our competitive advantages,” Thompson said. “We have a brand advantage in convenience, menu variety and value, a resilient business model, and the experience and alignment throughout the McDonald’s System to navigate the current environment.”
