McDonald’s regional comparable sales declined in August.

The fast food chain reported that sales in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APMEA) were down 0.5 per cent due to negative sales results in Japan, China and Australia.

However, worldwide sales grew by 1.9 per cent on the back of increased comparable sales in Europe (3.3 per cent) and the US (0.2 per cent).

McDonald’s says Europe’s results benefited from the introduction of blended-ice beverages in the UK, strong premium food events in the UK and Russia and emphasis on core products in France.

CEO Don Thompson says the company remains confident in the fundamental strength of McDonald’s and its ability to connect with customers and deliver its menu choices, value and convenience.

“Ensuring that each of our strategies resonates with our customers is the key to our performance – today and for the long-term,” he said.

McDonald’s has over 34,500 locations in more than 100 countries.