Fast food chain McDonald’s has decided to extend its popular $5 meal deal for several more weeks. According to a memo from the company, a majority of McDonald’s locations in the U.S. have agreed to keep the promotion going beyond its original four-week run that started on June 25.
The meal bundle will continue to be available in approximately 93% of restaurants across the country, although the duration of the promotion may differ by location, with some chains choosing to extend the offer until August.
As consumers face higher food prices, particularly in the fast casual dining sector, McDonald’s $5 deal has proven to be beneficial for the brand. Foot traffic analytics firm Placer.ai reported a significant increase in visits to McDonald’s outlets shortly after the promotion was introduced, indicating that the deal has resonated well with hungry customers.
The success of McDonald’s promotion has spurred rival fast casual chains to implement their own special offers. For instance, Arby’s has rolled out a $9 meal bundle, while Sonic has introduced a permanent $1.99 value menu. Taco Bell announced a limited-time $7 Luxe Cravings Box in addition to its existing $5 Taco Discovery Box and Cravings Value Menu.
In late May, Burger King announced that its $5 “Your Way Meal” would be extended beyond the McDonald’s promotion. Earlier that month, the chain mentioned plans to introduce new items as part of its “Fiery Menu.” Meanwhile, Wendy’s also joined the competition with a $3 breakfast bundle and a $5 combo known as the “Biggie Bag.”