McDonald’s announced that its global sales increased 6.7% in April, or 3.9% in constant currencies.

According to a press release, comparable sales for McDonald’s restaurants worldwide increased 2.8%.

McDonald’s CEO Jim Skinner said, “Our strategic focus on our customers and restaurants continues to drive our business with April marking our 24th consecutive month of global comparable sales increases.”

Reuters explains:

Sales at McDonald’s U.S. restaurants have boomed in the last two years thanks to new menu items like meal-sized salads and fried chicken strips as well as initiatives like later hours and cashless payments.

To help drive sales, the company last week introduced a new Fruit ‘n Walnut salad that will be supported by a national advertising campaign.

“Building on its strong momentum, our U.S. business posted a 4.7% comparable sales gain in April as a result of combined operations and marketing initiatives that continue to enhance our consumer relevance,” said Skinner. “Tomorrow McDonald’s U.S.A. will launch national advertising of our new Fruit & Walnut Premium Salad. Available all day long, this exciting premium menu addition provides even more choice and variety for our customers.”

“In Europe, April comparable sales were down 0.7% against last year’s 5.0% increase,” Skinner added. “April 2005 results were hurt by the previously discussed shift of Easter and related school holidays from April in 2004 to March in 2005. We also continue to face a challenging operating environment in Germany and the United Kingdom. Despite this, I’m confident we are on the right track in Europe by delivering more relevant marketing, additional menu variety and everyday branded affordability.”

McDonald’s stock rose 29 cents today in early trading.

Chris is a staff writer for Murdok. Visit Murdok for the latest ebusiness news.