In the competition to attract inflation-weary consumers, McDonald’s $5 meal deal has become a significant driver of foot traffic.
Since introducing the bundle in late June, McDonald’s has seen a notable increase in customer visits, according to foot traffic analytics firm Placer.ai. The report highlighted that June 25, the launch day, marked McDonald’s busiest Tuesday of the year. The chain experienced over an 8% increase in visits compared to the yearly average, with similar trends observed in the following days. On July 2, McDonald’s surpassed its average in-store visit numbers again, indicating strong consumer interest in the deal.
The $5 meal deal, available for about two more weeks, initially planned as a month-long promotion, includes the choice of a McDouble or McChicken sandwich, four-piece Chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small drink.
Additionally, McDonald’s offers another promotion where customers spending at least $1 on Fridays can receive a free order of french fries. This deal, accessible through the McDonald’s app, is available every Friday until the end of 2024.
McDonald’s isn’t alone in experiencing a rise in customer visits due to special deals. Casual dining chains like Buffalo Wild Wings, Starbucks, and Chili’s have also seen increased foot traffic, partly because of their own discount promotions, according to Placer.ai.
Other major players in the fast-food industry are also jumping on the discount bandwagon. Arby’s introduced a $9 bundle earlier this week, shortly after Sonic unveiled a $1.99 value menu. In June, Taco Bell launched a $7 Luxe Cravings Box alongside its $5 Taco Discovery Box and Cravings Value Menu.
In May, Burger King announced its $5 “Your Way Meal” bundle, extending longer than McDonald’s offering. Wendy’s also introduced a $3 breakfast bundle earlier that month and later a $5 “Biggie Bag” combo, which includes a Frosty.