McDonald's sales on a roll in Europe

FAST food chain McDonald's reported a higher-than-expected quarterly profit yesterday as its low-price focus helped drive strong sales in Europe and the United States.

June sales at outlets open at least 13 months were stronger than analysts expected in each of the world's biggest burger chain's operating units.

During the month, like-for-like sales were up 6.9 per cent in the United States, 9.1 per cent in Europe and 4.8 per cent in McDonald's Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa division.

Europe is the largest market for sales, contributing about 40 per cent of revenues.