McDonald's Corp posted a 6 percent rise in April sales at established restaurants, helped by price increases that mitigated the impact of higher costs for beef and other ingredients.

Shares of the world's largest hamburger restaurant operator rose 1.3 percent in premarket trade on Monday.

McDonald's in March put through a 1 percent menu price rise in the United States, where it plans additional increases. Prices in Europe are up by the same amount, and the company plans to raise prices in China.

McDonald's has an edge over rivals when it comes to raising prices because it attracts a higher-income diner than other fast-food chains. Analysts say it would have the least pushback if it boosted prices on premium burgers and McCafe drinks that appeal to those customers.

The company said April sales at restaurants open at least 13 months were up 4 percent in the United States.

Same-restaurant sales rose 6.5 percent in Europe and 6.5 percent in its Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa unit.

McDonald's shares rose to $79.70 in premarket trading from Friday's New York Stock Exchange close of $78.70.

(Reporting by Brad Dorfman and Lisa Baertlein; Editing by Derek Caney and John Wallace)

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