Fast food leader McDonald’s is set to extend its $5 meal deal for additional weeks. According to Bloomberg, which referenced a memo from the chain, most McDonald’s locations in the U.S. have agreed to prolong the promotion beyond its initial four-week timeframe that began on June 25.
The meal deal will be available at approximately 93% of McDonald’s restaurants nationwide, with the duration of the promotion varying by location, and some franchises opting to keep the deal until August.
As consumers grapple with rising food prices, especially in fast casual dining, the McDonald’s bundle has proven beneficial for the company. A report from foot traffic analytics firm Placer.ai revealed that following the launch of the meal deal, there was a significant increase in customers visiting McDonald’s locations, indicating that the promotion appealed to shoppers.
This offer has prompted competing fast casual dining chains to respond with their own promotions. Arby’s has introduced a $9 meal bundle, while Sonic has launched a permanent $1.99 value menu. In June, Taco Bell announced a $7 Luxe Cravings Box for a limited time in addition to its existing $5 Taco Discovery Box and Cravings Value Menu.
In late May, Burger King revealed that its $5 “Your Way Meal” bundle would remain available for longer than McDonald’s offer, and it also planned to launch new items under its “Fiery Menu.” Wendy’s has joined the competition with a $3 breakfast bundle and recently introduced the $5 “Biggie Bag” combo.