OAK BROOK, ILL. — McDonald’s Corp. reported flat U.S. comparable sales during April, even with the launches of a free coffee promotion and a new premium sandwich.

Comparable sales growth in other regions led to a global increase of 1.2% during the month.

“We are strengthening our business plans by emphasizing customer-driven strategies,” said Don Thompson, president and chief executive officer.  “We remain focused on delivering an outstanding restaurant experience by serving our customers their favorite McDonald’s food and drinks and offering compelling value, choice and convenience to create easy, memorable experiences.”

In the United States, McDonald’s debuted the Bacon Clubhouse during the month and supported its breakfast platform with a McCafe coffee promotion. But ongoing competitive challenges and industry dynamics continued to pressure the chain.

Europe’s comparable sales grew 0.3%, driven by positive results in the United Kingdom and France that offset weak performance in Germany.

In the Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA) region, comparable sales advanced 2.9% on strength in China compared with prior-year impact from Avian influenza, as well as gains in Australia that offset ongoing challenges in Japan.