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McDonald’s, the world’s largest fast-food chain on the planet, reported that overall sales in the month of January have increased 2.6 percent globally, offsetting a 0.7 sales decrease in the United States. These figures do not include locations that have been open for less than 13 months.

McDonald’s continues to succeed while competitors, such as Wendy’s and Burger King, have not been as fortunate in recent years. Even though McDonald’s has been outperforming others, they may find their nemeses breathing down their neck, as rivals are offering discounts and values of their own.

In an era where people all over the world are experiencing the worst economic hardship in decades, many people are choosing to dine at McDonald’s due to their enticing menu options at cheap prices. For many, McDonald’s is a more cost-effective alternative to pricier and fancier restaurants. In fact, eating at McDonald’s is cheaper – and more convenient – than preparing most home-cooked meals.

To further increase sales, McDonald’s has introduced new items on their menus, depending on what country you live in. For those of you accustomed to dining exclusively at the golden arches in the Untied States, you may be surprised at the vast difference of offerings from foreign McDonald’s.

Last week, McDonald’s debuted the strawberry banana and wild berry smoothie at the Olympic media center in Vancouver. The real fruit smoothie’s were introduced by company executives, along with Olympic gold medalists Shawn Johnson, Picabo Street, and Katarina Witt. After the Olympics, McDonald’s plans to transition the smoothies into their normal menu offering this summer.

Japan is gearing up for some changes. In the next year and a half, 430 McDonald’s locations in Japan will close. However, despite the closings, 90 new locations will open and 200 other locations will be refurnished. There are currently 3,700 locations in Japan.

Germany, currently the fourth-largest market, recently introduced the veggie burger, which contains potatoes, carrots and peppers. In addition to the meat-free treat, Germany offers beer for its customers. Germany is also looking to increase revenue with the McCafe coffee bar, which is already integrated in nearly half of all McDonald’s restaurants.

Italy, originators of delicious cuisine such as pizza, is now offering the McItaly. The new burger uses all Italian beef, Asiago cheese, and artichoke spread, and lettuce.

McDonald’s has approximately 31,000 locations worldwide, operating in over 120 countries, and serves over 50 million people.