In response to rising prices and consumer demand for more affordable meals, major fast food chains like McDonald’s, Starbucks and Burger King are launching extensive meal promotions this summer. These initiatives aim to attract customers with value-priced combos, ranging from $5 meals at McDonald’s to Starbucks’ new pairings 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, cheap dining is a proven strategy for chains to keep consumers coming back, as they continue to retreat from fast food restaurants due to price concerns amid urgent inflation. Although 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 feeling is not limited to McDonald’s. This has given rise to a price war currently being waged on several fronts.
Fast food bonanza of 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 fry with a minimum purchase of $1.
Starbucks
Starbucks is not known for its combo meals; however, in response to competition in the market, the coffee chain has introduced a new “pairing menu.” This menu allows customers to pair a large hot or iced tea or coffee with various staples, such as a buttery croissant or a breakfast sandwich. The limited-time offer costs between $5 and $6.
Burger King
On June 13, Burger King reinstated its $5 all-you-can-eat menu, offering customers the option of a Whopper Jr., Bacon Cheeseburger, or Chicken Jr., along with fries, a four-piece chicken nugget, and a soft drink. The company decided not to be left behind. The promotion is expected to run through the summer.
Wendy’s
Wendy’s is increasing the amount of food in its $5 Biggie Bag and offering a free small Frosty with all orders placed through the company’s app. (You can choose between the chocolate or tri-berry varieties.) The combo includes a small soft drink, fries, four pieces of chicken, and your choice of sandwich (either a junior bacon double cheeseburger or a crispy chicken sandwich). The deal runs through 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 offer a free order of full-size Fully Loaded Fries with any purchase made through the company’s app.
Chipotle
Chipotle is currently offering only a few new, meaningful and innovative combinations. However, the company is offering five customers the chance to earn the Celebrity Card, which will grant them access to one free meal per day at the restaurant 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 through 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.
Chilies
Do you like hamburgers? What do we mean by “really likes hamburgers?” » Chili’s provides a lifetime supply to just one lucky recipient. (Technically, the prize consists of $31,200 in Chili’s gift cards and a $10,296 cash payment to pay taxes, which equates to a 40-year supply of burgers.) To win, you must get the Highest score on the updated version of the company’s classic arcade video. BurgerTime game. The competition is open to customers aged 18 or over and will run until July 14.
Photo: Microsoft Bing
