McDonald’s (MCD.N) reported stronger-than-expected global comparable sales for the third quarter on Wednesday, as affordable meal promotions helped attract cautious diners amid economic uncertainty.

The fast-food giant posted global same-store sales growth of 3.6%, slightly above analyst estimates of 3.55%, driven by robust performance in the U.S. and international markets. In the U.S., comparable sales rose 2.4% in Q3, up from 0.3% a year earlier, while sales in franchised restaurant segments surged 4.7%, led by Japan. International markets, including Germany and Australia, saw sales gains of 4.3%.

To counter softening restaurant traffic due to high inflation and slower wage growth, McDonald’s maintained its $5 meal deal, reintroduced Extra Value Meals, and launched $2.99 Snack Wraps. Franchisees also standardized a 15% discount on combo meals nationwide, up from 10–11%, helping sustain customer engagement.

Despite the sales boost, overall visits to McDonald’s fell 3.5% between July and September compared with a 2.3% decline across the quick-service category, according to Placer.ai data. Quarterly adjusted net income was $2.31 billion, or $3.22 per share, slightly down from $2.32 billion, or $3.23 per share, a year ago.