Yum, McDonald's apologize as new China food scandal hits

(Reuters) - Yum Brands Inc YUM.N and McDonald's Corp MCD.N are facing a new food safety scare in China, denting the fast-food companies' efforts to shore up reputations and businesses that were hurt by a 2012 safety scandal in one of their biggest markets.

US companies offset weak sales growth with fat margins

After four years of belt-tightening, American companies are good at squeezing more profit out of every dollar of sales - a skill that chief executives regard as critical in the face of an uncertain economy.

Starbucks raises full-year forecast, shares rise

(Reuters) - Starbucks Corp reported higher quarterly profit on Thursday, as overall sales at its established coffee shops topped analysts' estimates, and it raised its forecast for fiscal 2013.

McDonald's sales growth cools, chilled by competition

(Reuters) - McDonald's Corp posted its worst quarterly restaurant sales growth performance in nine years on Friday, lifting the curtain on the fast-food industry's ruthless fight for customers in a weak economy.

McDonald's showing signs of tear from economy

NEW YORK (AP) — McDonald's Corp., which has thrived in recent years by emphasizing affordability and rolling out popular new menu items, is starting to show signs of tear from the volatile global economy.