OAK BROOK, ILL. — McDonald’s Corp. announced its global comparable sales increased 1.4% in February and 4.3% year-to-date. The company said system-wide sales for restaurants worldwide decreased 4.6% in February, or 3.2% in constant currencies, reflecting the negative impact of a calendar shift due to leap year.

"McDonald’s continues to deliver what customers want — everyday affordable prices and quality menu choices," said Jim Skinner, chief executive officer. "We serve approximately 58 million customers around the world every day, demonstrating the ongoing appeal of McDonald’s unique combination of convenience, value and variety."

Comparable sales at the Oak Brook-based fast-food chain rose 2.8% in the United States in February driven by the strength of the chicken line-up, the core menu as well as beverages and breakfast items.

European comparable sales decreased 0.2%, reflecting the impact of the calendar shift. Premium menu items and value contributed to sales in Europe with the U.K. and Russia leading in sales. Also in February, McDonald’s said comparable sales increased 0.7% in Asia/Pacific/Middle East and Africa.

"We remain confident in the fundamental strength of the McDonald’s business," Mr. Skinner said. "We have the right strategies in place to grow the business for the long term, and we have the operating experience to manage through the current environment."