Fall is here, and so are the savings at McDonald’s! The fast-food giant has extended its popular $5 Meal Deal and added new promotions to help you enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. From free fries to discounted McNuggets, there’s something for everyone. Read on to discover all the deals McDonald’s has to offer this autumn.
McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal Extension
McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal made its debut on the fast-food chain’s menu last summer as a limited-time offer, but it will now be available throughout the fall.
Initially launched in June, the $5 Meal Deal includes a choice of either a McDouble or a McChicken sandwich, a four-piece order of Chicken McNuggets, small fries, and a small soft drink. On September 12th, McDonald’s officially announced that the deal is here to stay, with most local markets extending it through December.
“This summer, tens of millions of fans went to their local McDonald’s to enjoy our $5 Meal Deal, and it was so great to welcome them,” said Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald’s USA, in a statement earlier this month.
According to USA Today, McDonald’s reports that 67% of the $5 Meal Deals were ordered with McDoubles, while 33% featured a McChicken. But whether you’re part of Team McDouble or Team McChicken, you now have more time to indulge in this tasty offer, thanks to the promotion’s extension.
Why McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal has been a success
The McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal has been a successful marketing strategy for several reasons:
- Affordability: The $5 price point made the meal highly accessible to a wide range of consumers, especially during times of economic uncertainty.
- Value Proposition: The combination of a sandwich, nuggets, fries, and a drink provides a complete meal at a competitive price, offering excellent value for money.
- Familiarity: The deal featured classic McDonald’s menu items that customers were already familiar with and enjoyed, reducing the perceived risk of trying something new.
- Limited-Time Offer: The initial promotion as a limited-time offer created a sense of urgency, encouraging customers to purchase the deal before it was gone.
- Flexibility: The choice between McDouble or McChicken allowed customers to customize the deal to their preferences, increasing its appeal.
- Convenience: McDonald’s well-established presence and quick service model make it a convenient choice for customers seeking a fast meal. The $5 Meal Deal capitalizes on this convenience, making it easy for consumers to grab a satisfying meal on the go.
- Strong Marketing Campaign: McDonald’s effectively promoted the deal through various channels, including advertising, social media, and in-store signage, reaching a wide audience.
McDonald’s $5 Meal Deal has been so successful that ignited a value meal competition among various fast-food chains over the summer. Aside from McDonald’s, other restaurant chains that joined the value wars include Wendy’s, Popeyes, Taco Bell, Burger King, Jack in the Box and White Castle, as well as sit-down restaurants like Chili’s and Olive Garden.
McDonald’s Expands Fall Savings with New Deals
In addition to its $5 Meal Deal, McDonald’s has other ongoing and upcoming deals launching this fall.
One ongoing promotion is Free Fries Fridays, which allows customers to enjoy a free medium order of fries with any purchase of $1 or more every Friday.
To celebrate National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day on November 9th, fans can snag a McCrispy sandwich for just $2.
Moreover, from November 4th to December 2nd, fast-food lovers can enjoy 10-piece Chicken McNuggets for only $1, available once a week—perfect for sharing with a friend (or keeping all to yourself).
Customers should also explore the McDonald’s app for more local deals. Recent offers include two for $3.99 for a choice of Chicken or Sausage McGriddle, Sausage Biscuit, or any size Iced Coffee in Southern California, a $5 20-piece order of McNuggets in Dallas, and a $1.99 any size frozen carbonated beverage to complement your favorite McDonald’s meal in New England.
“Together with our franchisees, we’re committed to keeping our prices as affordable as possible, which is why we’re doubling down with even more ways to save,” added Erlinger. “Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, we want everyone to find the food they love at a price that hits the spot. The extension of the $5 Meal Deal, and the other offerings we’re announcing for our fall line-up, are just a few of the ways we’re working hard to offer great meals at a fair price.”