text: "By continuing to provide the menu variety and value consumers want with the fast, friendly service they expect from McDonald's, we've strengthened our connection with customers and driven comparable sales growth for six consecutive years," says CEO Jim Skinner.
  
  In the U.S., the ongoing appeal of McDonald's core menu, beverages including the new McCafe coffees and chicken Snack Wraps contributed to April comparable sales rising 6.1 percent.
  
  Europe delivered strong comparable sales growth of 8.4 percent for the month, partly due to the benefit of the Easter holiday shift. Leading Europe's performance was the U.K., where customers embraced our tiered menu offerings, as well as the popular Monopoly promotion. France, Russia, and Germany also posted positive comparable sales.