GOOD DAY FOR: Big Macs, as McDonald’s reported an 8.2 percent jump in global same-store sales in October, including a 5.2 percent jump in the U.S., even as the restaurant industry in general had a dismal month. Analysts suggest that recession-wary consumers are opting for McDonald’s fast food at the expense of pricier sit-down restaurants. (AP in The New York Times)
BAD DAY FOR: Raisinets, as revenue from food and drink sales at movie theater operators Cinemark and Carmike Cinemas fell in the U.S. last quarter, pacing a decline in movie attendance. Both chains posted profits, though, thanks to strong overseas numbers and higher ticket prices. They also argued that each patron actually spent more on food. Conventional wisdom has moviegoing a recession-proof activity. (Hollywood Reporter in Reuters)