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McDonald’s Celebrity Buzz Fuels U.S. Growth as Overseas Lags

Travis Scott deal reportedly sparked quarter-pounder shortage
International sales remain negative as Europe, China lag

Travis Scott surprises crew and customers at McDonald’s for the launch of the Travis Scott Meal in Downey, California.
Photographer: Jerritt Clark/Getty Images

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By Edward Ludlow and Carolina Gonzalez

October 8, 2020 at 8:07 AM EDT

Updated on

October 8, 2020 at 9:37 AM EDT

This article is for subscribers only.

McDonald’s Corp. reported a return to growth in its home market, even as global sales slipped for a third straight quarter with the pandemic continuing to roil its international units.

The fast-food chain’s global comparable sales fell 2.2% in the third quarter, according to sales results released Thursday for the period ended Sept. 30. U.S. growth of 4.6% was buoyed by a brisk drive-thru business and limited-edition celebrity meals, even as its international units posted declines.