new York
CNN
—
McDonald’s $5 meal deal will remain on menus through December, a sign that inflation-weary customers are gobbling up the cheap meals that fast-food chains have recently started offering.
The Chicago-based fast-food giant announced the $5 meal deal in June, but what the company said was a month-long promotion quickly turned into a summer promotion. In July, McDonald’s said the vast majority of its restaurants would keep the menu through August.
The meal consists of either a McChicken sandwich or a McDouble cheeseburger, small French fries, 4 Chicken McNuggets and a small soft drink.
Although McDonald’s has in the past touted its ability to raise menu prices without sacrificing sales, customers are holding on to their money more tightly — diners around the world aren’t eating out as often and are spending less when they do. Earlier this year, McDonald’s reported weaker-than-expected sales at its U.S. stores, and CEO Chris Kempczinski noted that “eating at home has become more affordable.”
Starbucks, Burger King and Wendy’s all reported a decline in customers and responded to falling sales by luring customers with cheaper menu offerings.
“Together with our franchisees, we are committed to keeping our prices as affordable as possible, which is why we are stepping up our efforts with even more savings opportunities,” said Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s USA, in a statement.
McDonald’s has also announced a slew of fall deals, from a $0.50 double cheeseburger for National Cheeseburger Day on September 18 to a $2 McCrispy sandwich for National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day on November 9.
