McDonald’s on Thursday revealed the menu for its $5 value meal, which will be available during the fast-food giant’s limited-time promotion starting next week. With sales numbers indicating that inflation-weary consumers are reducing their dining out, McDonald’s and other restaurant chains are competing to offer even cheaper meal options.
McDonald’s announced the promotion following a slowdown in foot traffic growth at its restaurants. “We heard our fans loud and clear — they’re looking for even more great value from us, and this summer that’s exactly what they’ll get,” McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger said in a statement.
McDonald’s also announced a “Free Fries Friday” promotion
Here’s what $5 will buy you when the promotion, which is expected to last roughly a month, launches at McDonald’s restaurants nationwide on June 25:
- Choice of a McDouble burger or a McChicken sandwich
- Small fries
- 4-piece Chicken McNuggets
- Small soft drink
McDonald’s also announced a “Free Fries Friday” promotion, offering customers a free medium french fry with any $1 minimum purchase. According to company data, McDonald’s average cost of a Big Mac is now $5.29, up 21% from $4.39 in 2019.
The average price of a Quarter Pounder with cheese is $5.39, up 20% from $4.49 in 2019. Fast-food chains cite rising labour and food costs as the main factors driving up prices. The company is the nation’s largest fast-food chain, with more than 13,500 restaurants. A January poll by consulting firm Revenue Management Solutions found that about 25% of people earning under $50,000 were cutting back on fast food due to cost concerns. A recent LendingTree survey found that 78% of consumers now view fast food as a luxury item that’s becoming expensive.
