McDonald's sales growth slows in August

CHICAGO -- McDonald's, the world's largest fast-food chain, said Wednesday sales in established restaurants rose 2.2% globally in August, the smallest monthly gain since February.

The world's largest fast-food chain said sales at restaurants open at least 13 months, a key measurement that adjusts for the effects of expansion, rose 1.7% in the U.S. and 3.5% in Europe. In the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa regions, the figure fell 0.5%.

The last time systemwide comparable sales were so low was in February, when the company said they rose 1.4%, without being adjusted for a calendar shift.

In the U.S., Angus Third Pounders and McCafe espresso-based coffees were strong sellers, the company said.

Total sales rose 1.1%, including a 2.6% gain in the U.S., a 3% drop in Europe and a 6.1% rise in Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa.

Year-to-date, sales at restaurants open at least 13 months rose 4.2% while total sales fell nearly 1%.