McDonald's reported its eighth straight month of improving sales - and a third consecutive month of double-digit increases in the US - as revamped products and marketing boosted the turnaround at the world's biggest fast food company.

The company also confirmed that it would take a final decision on the future of its "partner brand" restaurants.

These include Chipotle Mexican Grill, Donatos Pizza, Boston Market and a stake in the Pret A Manger sandwich chain, "in the coming weeks".

McDonald's fuelled speculation last month that it would sell the chains after the company said it expected to take a charge for them in the fourth quarter.

Global sales - including company-owned and franchised restaurants - increased 14.9 per cent in November over the same month in 2002, or 8.2 per cent in constant currency terms.

Comparable sales, from outlets open at least a year, increased by 6.4 per cent.

In the US, comparable sales rose by 10.2 per cent - on the back of a 15.1 per cent increase in October - and 10 per cent in September.

Total US sales went up by 12.3 per cent.

Mr Jim Cantalupo, who came out of retirement to become chief executive in January, said: "While we still have work to do, our momentum continues as we maintain focus and discipline on what counts most - our customers and restaurants."

The gains were not limited to the US. The Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa region saw a 4.1 per cent comparable increase, with total sales up 4.4 per cent excluding currency gains.

Mr Cantalupo has put a renewed focus on basics such as food quality and good service. Sales have also been boosted in the US by a premium salad range, and new McGriddle breakfast sandwiches.

McDonald's also credited longer opening hours, an in-store Monopoly game promotion, and its first global marketing campaign, under the slogan "I'm Lovin' It", for the strong November figures.

But shares of McDonald's, among the best performers on the market this year, slipped 1.5 per cent to $25.58 in early trading in New York.