/ Source: The Associated Press
INCREASED BUSINESS: McDonald's says sales in locations open at least a year rose 4.9 percent in April. In the U.S., the figure climbed 3.8 percent.
WHY IT MATTERS: The measurement is a key indicator of a restaurant chain's performance because it excludes growth at sites that open or close during the year.
WHAT THEY BOUGHT: Executives at the fast-food chain said customers spent more on drinks during the month, including the company's Frappes. Meanwhile, Chicken McNuggets and the company's dollar breakfast menu also were hits.