McDonald’s introduces US$5 value meal targeting low-income customers 

USA – Fast-food chain, McDonald’s has announced plans to introduce a US$5 value meal for its low-income customers facing challenges, according to multiple media reports. 

The limited-time offer will begin on June 25 and last about a month, CBS News reported, citing people in the know. 

According to sources, the US$5 value meal could include four items: a McChicken or McDouble, four-piece chicken nuggets, fries, and a drink.   

Bloomberg first reported this, as McDonald’s required approval from franchise owners. Palmaccio and other franchise owners gave the new promotion their consent this week, it was reported. 

According to Bloomberg, McDonald’s franchise owner John Palmaccio said, “Great value and affordability have always been a hallmark of McDonald’s brand, and all three legs of the stool are coming together to deliver that when our customers really need it.”  

This comes as McDonald’s executives reported slower growth in foot traffic at its restaurants after the fast-food chain hiked prices. Other US chains have boosted menu item prices, citing rising labor costs and food costs as the key factors.  

During the earnings call two weeks ago, the fast-food giant said inflation-weary customers eat out less often in many big markets.  

Chris Kempczinski, the company’s CEO, said, “Consumers continue to be even more discriminating with every dollar they spend as they faced elevated prices in their day-to-day spending, which is putting pressure on the [quick-service restaurant] industry.” 

Kempczinski reiterated the need to prioritize the affordability of meals to attract and retain customers. 

McDonald’s unveils Grandma McFlurry for limited time 

In another development, McDonald’s has introduced a special menu item, the Grandma McFlurry, for a limited period. 

Starting Tuesday, May 21, this nostalgic sweet treat will be available in stores. Described as tasting “like grandma’s favorite treat that she hid in her purse,” the Grandma McFlurry features delicious syrup and crunchy candy pieces blended into creamy vanilla soft serve. 

McDonald’s emphasized the nostalgia factor in its press release, stating, “The new McFlurry is sweet—just like grandma—and features a delicious syrup and chopped, crunchy candy pieces. It’s the perfect sweet treat to share with your grandma or the grandma figure .” 

In another recent development, McDonald’s discreetly added two new McCrispy sandwiches to its menu last month, available for a limited time across participating US stores. 

The Bacon Cajun Ranch McCrispy and Bacon Cajun Ranch Deluxe McCrispy are inspired by the soul food flavors of the South. 

According to McDonald’s, the Bacon Cajun Ranch McCrispy features a bold, creamy, and spicy Cajun ranch sauce, applewood smoked bacon, and crisp crinkle-cut pickles, all served on a warm toasted potato roll. 

They added, “It’s the spiced-up touch the OG McCrispy didn’t even know it needed. Want to dress it up even more? Make it a Bacon Cajun Ranch Deluxe McCrispy with Roma tomatoes and shredded lettuce.” 

Both new offerings highlight McDonald’s ongoing innovation in their menu items, appealing to nostalgic and adventurous palates alike.