Amid efforts to attract inflation-weary consumers, McDonald’s $5 meal deal is driving increased foot traffic to its restaurants.
Since the chain introduced this bundle in late June, McDonald’s has experienced a notable rise in customer visits, according to foot traffic analytics firm Placer.ai. The report highlights that on the launch day, Tuesday, June 25, McDonald’s recorded its busiest Tuesday of the year, with an 8.0% increase in visits compared to the year-to-date average. This pattern continued, with significant traffic on subsequent days, including July 2, when McDonald’s again surpassed its in-store visit average, indicating strong consumer interest in the deal.
The $5 meal deal, initially intended for a month-long promotion, will be available for about two more weeks. This offer includes a choice of a McDouble or a McChicken sandwich, four-piece chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small drink.
Additionally, McDonald’s is running another promotion where customers who spend at least $1 on Fridays can receive a free order of french fries. This special offer is available every Friday through the end of 2024, but purchases must be made via the McDonald’s app.
McDonald’s is not alone in witnessing an increase in customer visits due to price promotions. Other casual dining chains like Buffalo Wild Wings, Starbucks, and Chili’s are also experiencing a rise in foot traffic, driven by their respective discount deals, according to Placer.ai.
Several other fast-food giants are also vying for consumer dollars in the current inflationary economy. Arby’s recently announced a $9 bundle, while Sonic has introduced a permanent $1.99 value menu. In June, Taco Bell launched a $7 Luxe Cravings Box, in addition to its existing $5 Taco Discovery Box and Cravings Value Menu. Burger King revealed that its $5 “Your Way Meal” bundle would be available for a longer duration than McDonald’s promotion. Wendy’s debuted a $3 breakfast bundle in May and has since introduced the $5 “Biggie Bag” combo, which includes a Frosty.