In response to rising prices and consumer demand for affordability, major fast food chains like McDonald’s, Starbucks and Burger King are launching extensive meal promotions this summer. These initiatives aim to entice customers with high-value combinations, from $5 meals at McDonald’s to Starbucks’ new pairing menu. With deals like Wendy’s Biggie Bag and Checkers/Rally’s Fry Pass, consumers can enjoy substantial savings amid economic concerns.
Navigating the Fast Food Price War: Summer 2024 Deals and Consumer Sentiment
In a recent Fortune report, the cheap meal is a proven strategy for chains to keep consumers coming back as they continue to shy away from fast-food restaurants due to pricing concerns amid urgent inflation. While combo meals are typical of the quick-service industry, this summer saw more of them than ever before.
This is partly a result of the “McFlation” claims, which were made in response to reports of chicken sandwiches costing nearly $8 and Big Mac meals costing $18. (McDonald’s U.S. president Joe Erlinger addressed this issue last month by issuing a public letter refuting “viral social media posts and poorly documented reports that McDonald’s has raised prices well above inflation rates.”)
Consumers feel that fast food has become prohibitively expensive, and this sentiment is not limited to McDonald’s. This has led to a price war that is currently being waged on several fronts.
Fast food bonanza for summer 2024: discover the exclusive offers and promotions
Take a look at the meal deals and promotions consumers can take advantage of during summer 2024.
McDonalds
Yahoo Finance reported that the fast food chain will offer a new $5 meal at most locations starting June 25. The meal includes a McDouble cheeseburger or McChicken sandwich, small fries, four Chicken McNuggets and a small soft drink.
The company also promotes promotions offered by local franchisees, which differ from store to store. For example, some Memphis McDonald’s locations offer discounted breakfast sandwiches, while Columbus locations offer a double cheeseburger and small fries for $3.50.
Additionally, the chain is offering a promotion through the end of the year, allowing customers to receive a free medium fries with a minimum purchase of $1.
Starbucks
Starbucks isn’t known for its combo meals; However, in response to market competition, the coffee chain implemented a new “pairing menu.” This menu allows customers to combine a large hot or iced tea or coffee with various staple foods, like a buttery croissant or breakfast sandwich. The limited time offer costs between $5 and $6.
Burger King
Burger King reinstated its $5 Meal Your Way on June 13, giving customers the option to choose from a Whopper Jr., Bacon Cheeseburger or Chicken Jr., in addition to fries, a four-piece chicken nugget and a soft drink. He was determined not to be left behind. The promotion should be in effect for the summer.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is increasing the amount of food in its Biggie Bag to $5 and offering a free small Frosty with all orders placed through the company’s app. (You can select chocolate or three-berry varieties.) The combo includes a small soft drink, fries, four-piece chicken tenders and a choice of sandwich (either a double junior bacon cheeseburger or a bacon sandwich). crispy chicken). The agreement will remain in effect until June 30.
From July 1 through July 7, Wendy’s will be giving customers a free Frosty with every $5 purchase when using the app.
Ladies/Rallies
From July 1 to 12, fans of the sister chains will have the opportunity to win a Fry Pass, allowing them to enjoy a year’s supply of fully dressed fries. The channels intend to select 100 winners.
Additionally, between July 12 and 14, Checkers and Rally will be offering a free order of regular-sized Fully Loaded Fries with any purchase made through the company’s app.
Chipotle
Chipotle currently only has a few innovative and meaningful new combinations. However, the company is offering up to five customers the chance to get the Celebrity Card, which will give them access to one free restaurant meal per day and the ability to serve up to 50 people once a year. Using the hashtag #CelebCardContest, fans can submit their entries for the card on TikTok, Instagram and Twitter/X until July 3. Winners will be notified on July 12.
Taco Bell
On June 27, Taco Bell introduced its Luxe Cravings Box, which is now part of its value meal battles. The $7 combo includes a Chalupa Supreme, a beefy 5-layer burrito, a double-stacked taco, chips, nacho cheese sauce and a medium fountain drink. The company did not say how long the promotion will last.
Chili’s
Do you like hamburgers? What do you mean, “really love burgers”? Chili’s is offering a lifetime supply to one lucky recipient. (Technically, the prize consists of $31,200 in Chili’s gift cards and a $10,296 cash payment to settle taxes, which equates to a 40-year supply of burgers.) To win, you must obtain the high score in the updated version of the company’s classic arcade video game BurgerTime. The competition is open to customers aged 18 or over and will run until July 14.
Photo: Microsoft Bing
