Americans can’t get enough of the $5 meal deal, and McDonalds has decided to keep the affordable feast going as customers show signs of more spending.
“Smart” Consumer Resists the Extra Spend
CNBC reported that consumers show a lot of resilience and restraint regarding additional expenses such as eating out or ordering in. But reports show there’s a slight change.
Affordable Deals
Fast food outlets have reported good returns during these inflation times, which has spurred feverish competition. Brands like Domino’s Pizza, Chick-Fil-A, and Dunkin’ Donuts use “the lost leader tactic to their advantage.
Even as Low as $3
While McDonald’s meal deal sells at $5 and continues doing great amongst consumers, some eateries, like Wendy’s, have topped that with an inexpensive $3 breakfast deal.
Change of Heart
Even though McDonalds wanted to stick with their decision to keep prices according to inflation on the menu, it caused strain. The strain was felt by the competition too, ABC News reported.
Competing for Profits
The high return on value for some companies at this stage shows that more consumers are spending. Many companies are pushing their cheaper deals out since customers are “showing signs of cracking,” CNBC reported.
$5 Meal Deal Winner
McDonalds came up with the $5 deal to entice customers to buy even during inflation struggles. The company is doing so well with the deal that they are keeping discounted deal going for longer.
Delightful in Summer and Beyond
It was introduced as the “summer deal,” and the company was excited to get it out there, affording customers something that won’t break the bank.
It’s Generous for $5
Customers can choose the McChicken Meal Deal featuring four pieces of nuggets, a small world-famous fries, and a small Coke. The other option is the Beef Mcdouble Meal Deal featuring a small Coke, small world-famous fries, and four chicken nuggets.
The Customers Love It
McDonald’s customers took well to the special as it gave them value for money, something the company prides itself in.
Value for Customers
Earlier this year, when the meal deal was introduced, McDonald’s President Joe Erlinger said, “as long as our customers need value we’re going to provide it for them.”
McDonalds Competitors Are Setting the Bar High
Competing fast food brands have shown impressive results with growth during this year despite customers standing firm in spending less. According to CNBC, shops are doing so well, it might be that the consumers are starting to “crack” under the temptation of affordable takeout.
Still in Suspense About Earnings
McDonalds hasn’t shared their profits from their $5 deal, but ABC News said the company would reveal results by Monday, the 29th of this month.
Starbucks Saw Less Growth
The CEO of Starbucks, Laxman Narasimhan, said that in the food environment, “many customers have been more exacting about where and how they choose to spend their money,” CNBC reported.
How Affordable Takeaway Brands Are Doing
Chipotle reported an overall success in sales across its brand. Companies like Wendy’s have also seen a spike in growth this quarter, according to Yahoo News. Wendy’s had over 70% free cash flow, roughly $81.5 million.
Predictions for Wendy’s
Not everyone has been as fortunate in growth as Wendy’s. The company has increased revenue by 1.1%, $534.8 million. Expert market analysts from Wall Street say they see the company growing by 4.4% in the next year.
Sweet Green Climbs, Too
Another favorite amongst American health-conscious consumers is Sweet Green, which is predicted to increase growth by 5% this quarter.
Even at $15
Jonathan Neman, Sweetgreen’s CEO, told CBC News that the company’s menu items are around $15, and while some customers may feel it’s a lot at lunchtime, others see it as a bargain deal for dinner.
Top Sellers for Fast Food
According to Visual Capitalist, some top fast food sellers featuring their systemwide sales. McDonalds topped the list with $46 billion, Starbucks $23 billion, Chick-Fil-A $16 billion, Taco Bel $12 billion, Burger $10 billion, and Subway $9 billion.
A Treat Indeed
While consumers spent less on additions like fast food in previous months, the spending increase has increased slightly. However, companies know that providing value and quality meals will help bring even low-income customers through the doors.
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Adam McCullough.
The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute or replace professional financial advice.
