In the quest to attract inflation-weary consumers, McDonald’s $5 meal deal has become a significant draw for increasing foot traffic.
Since the chain introduced the bundle in late June, there has been a noticeable rise in visits to its locations, according to a report by foot traffic analytics firm Placer.ai.
On the launch day, Tuesday, June 25, McDonald’s experienced its busiest Tuesday of the year, with visits surging over 8.0% above the year-to-date average. Similar trends continued on subsequent days, with July 2 seeing a higher than average number of in-store visits, demonstrating the offer’s appeal.
The $5 deal, which includes a choice of a McDouble or McChicken sandwich, four-piece chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small drink, will be available for about two more weeks. Initially, McDonald’s planned to promote the deal for only a month.
Additionally, McDonald’s offers another promotion where customers who spend at least $1 on Fridays can get a free order of french fries. This promotion is valid every Friday through the end of 2024, but purchases must be made via the McDonald’s app.
McDonald’s isn’t the only one benefiting from increased customer visits. Other casual dining chains like Buffalo Wild Wings, Starbucks, and Chili’s are also experiencing jumps in customer foot traffic, partly due to their own discount deals, according to Placer.ai.
These promotions highlight how retailers are vying for consumer spending amid economic inflation.
Arby’s recently entered the discount competition with a $9 bundle. Sonic followed with a permanent $1.99 value menu. In June, Taco Bell introduced a limited-time $7 Luxe Cravings Box along with its $5 Taco Discovery Box and Cravings Value Menu.
Burger King announced in late May that its $5 “Your Way Meal” bundle would outlast McDonald’s deal. Earlier, Wendy’s rolled out a $3 breakfast bundle and later introduced a $5 combo called the “Biggie Bag,” which includes a Frosty.