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By Bloomberg

McDonald’s Corp., the world’s largest restaurant chain, posted fourth-quarter same-store sales that declined less than analysts’ estimated as menu changes started to turn around results in the U.S.

Sales at global McDonald’s locations open at least 13 months fell 0.9 percent in the quarter, the Oak Brook, Illinois- based company said today in a statement. Analysts estimated a 1.5 percent drop, according to Consensus Metrix.

McDonald’s is reorganizing its U.S. operations, trimming menu items and adding more customizable burger options to try to snap out of a sales slump. The company is battling for younger customers with fast-casual chains such as Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. while also facing price pressure from competitors such as Burger King and Wendy’s, which are offering steep discounts to lure diners.

Same-store sales fell 1.7 percent in the U.S. in the fourth quarter. Analysts estimated at a 2.1 percent drop. U.S. same- store sales rose 0.4 percent in December, topping estimates for a 0.8 percent drop and marking the first monthly increase since October 2013.

The shares rose 2.3 percent to $92.98 at 8:06 a.m. in early trading in New York. McDonald’s dropped 3.4 percent last year.

Net income fell 21 percent to $1.1 billion, or $1.13 a share, from $1.4 billion, or $1.40 a share a year earlier. The average of 23 analysts’ estimates compiled by Bloomberg was $1.22.