Introduction to McDonald’s Price Reduction
Fast-food chains have been increasing their prices in recent years, causing many consumers to take their business elsewhere. Now, McDonald’s is hoping to lure them back with its latest promotion. Earlier this week, the restaurant chain unveiled plans to lower the cost of its combo meals. As first reported by the Wall Street Journal, the announcement comes after representatives from the company met with restaurant operators and offered to provide financial assistance to franchise owners if they lowered prices.
What Sort of Price Changes Does McDonald’s Have Planned?
Per WSJ, eight of McDonald’s combo meals will soon cost 15% less than the total value of the meal’s items if purchased separately. For instance, a $10 meal could cost $8.50. Customers can expect lower costs on combo meals including the following items starting early September: Big Mac, Chicken McNuggets, McCrispy, Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Egg McMuffin, and some breakfast sandwiches. The plan is to keep discounts in place through at least the beginning of 2026.
Upcoming Deals on Combo Meals
Additionally, customers can also look forward to the following deals on combo meals, now called Extra Value Meals, later in the year:
- September: $5 Sausage Egg McMuffin meals and $8 Big Mac meals
- November: $5 Sausage, Egg and Cheese McGriddle and $8 10-piece Chicken McNuggets meals
Fighting Back Against Consumer Perceptions
Inflation has affected every sector of the economy in recent years, and many restaurants have struggled to stay afloat amid rising costs. In 2024, many consumers were outraged when the Big Mac combo at McDonald’s rose to $18 in some areas. In response, McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger penned an open letter to consumers to explain why the average price of the chain’s menu items had risen around 40% since 2019. In the letter, he cited rising costs of employee salaries and the cost of goods.
Impact on the Fast-Food Industry
Fast-food has traditionally been a budget-friendly option for consumers, but many have begun to consider McDonald’s as unaffordable in recent times, even as they’ve attempted to launch occasional deals. At the same time, many casual dining restaurants, like Applebee’s and Chili’s, have used the opportunity to entice customers to dine with them. In recent months, restaurants like Olive Garden and The Cheesecake Factory have reported increased sales, while fast-food chains like KFC, Pizza Hut, and Popeyes have seen a dip in same-store sales.
Conclusion
McDonald’s decision to lower the cost of its combo meals is a strategic move to regain customer loyalty and perception of affordability. By offering discounts and promotions, the company aims to attract price-conscious consumers and stay competitive in the fast-food market. As the company navigates the challenges of inflation and rising costs, it remains to be seen how effective these price reductions will be in driving sales and customer satisfaction.
FAQs
- Q: Why is McDonald’s lowering the cost of its combo meals?
A: McDonald’s is lowering the cost of its combo meals to lure back customers who have been deterred by rising prices and to regain its reputation as a budget-friendly option. - Q: Which combo meals will be discounted?
A: Eight of McDonald’s combo meals, including the Big Mac, Chicken McNuggets, McCrispy, Quarter Pounder with Cheese, Egg McMuffin, and some breakfast sandwiches, will be discounted by 15%. - Q: How long will the discounts be in place?
A: The discounts will be in place through at least the beginning of 2026. - Q: Are there any other deals or promotions that customers can look forward to?
A: Yes, customers can look forward to deals on Extra Value Meals, including $5 Sausage Egg McMuffin meals and $8 Big Mac meals in September, and $5 Sausage, Egg and Cheese McGriddle and $8 10-piece Chicken McNuggets meals in November.
