McDonald's sales fall globally for first time in 13 quarters

McDonald's reported a surprise drop in sales worldwide today, its first decline in 13 quarters, as deal-seeking consumers shy away from higher priced menu items, including Big Macs.

Global comparable sales fell one percent in the second quarter, compared with expectations of a 0.5 per cent increase. 

Overall revenue rose one percent.

Persistent inflation has forced lower-income consumers to shift to more affordable food options at home. 

That has led fast food chains such as McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, and Taco Bell to lean on value meals to spark customer traffic.