McDonald's global sales top $20bn

McDonald's has seen its sales improve in Europe and America

Fast food giant McDonald's has seen its global sales top $20bn (£11bn) for the first time in the company's history.

Full-year revenue rose 7% in 2005, boosted by strong sales in the US and a turnaround in its fortunes in Europe.

McDonald's has been revitalising its global business, adding salads and chicken strips to menus traditionally known for burgers and fries.

McDonald's said its net income for the year rose to $2.6bn, from $2.2bn in the previous year.

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During the final three months of the year, sales in Europe rose by 2.8% - led by an improved performance at its businesses in France, Russia and Germany.

"We will continue to build on our momentum in this important area of the world...through improved communication of our product quality, brand relevance and commitment to balanced, active lifestyles," McDonald's chief executive Jim Skinner said.

The company said it planned to open 800 restaurants in the current financial year as part of a $1.8bn round of investment.

McDonald's announced in October that it would start printing nutritional facts, including the fat, salt, calorie and carbohydrate content, on the packaging of products.

Critics have maintained that many of the foods on offer at McDonald's are unhealthy and fattening, at a time when obesity levels in many countries are soaring.

Last year, McDonald's said that it planned to give its iconic mascot clown Ronald McDonald a sporty new makeover, in a bid to encourage children to take up more active lifestyles.