New report reflects lower revenues, operating income and earnings per share.

"McDonald's third quarter results reflect a significant decline versus a year ago, with our business and financial performance pressured by a variety of factors - from a higher effective tax rate, to unusual events in the operating environments in APMEA and Europe, to under-performance in the U.S., our largest geographic segment," said McDonald's President and Chief Executive Officer Don Thompson. "While our ability to withstand these factors is a testament to the Company's enduring brand and strong financial foundation, by all measures our performance fell short of our expectations."

Adding, "We recognize that we must demonstrate to our customers and the entire McDonald's System that we understand the problems we face and are taking decisive action to fundamentally change the way we approach our business."

Among the third quarter results included:

However, the company has undertaken a new global approach designed to increase its relevance with customers and drive guest traffic. The chain will be focusing on three specific areas, according to the announcement made.