McDonald’s Plans 2025 Value Offerings to Retain Customers Amid Rising Costs

New “McValue” Strategy for 2025

McDonald’s is gearing up for 2025 with revamped value offerings aimed at retaining budget-conscious customers amid growing concerns over restaurant prices. The fast-food giant is set to roll out a “McValue” platform, featuring:

• $5 Value Meal Extension: The popular $5 value meal, introduced this summer, will remain available through the first half of 2025.
• “Buy One Add One” Deal: Customers can buy one item and add another for just $1. Options include items like a double cheeseburger, McChicken sandwich, 6-piece chicken nuggets, or small fries. Breakfast choices will include a Sausage McMuffin, sausage biscuit, sausage burrito, or a hash brown.

Local deals, such as $1 10-piece nuggets, will also continue to be part of McDonald’s value offerings, reinforcing its strategy to appeal to cost-conscious diners.

Operator Support and Earnings Outlook

While franchise operators are still finalizing their approval for the 2025 value initiatives, insiders suggest the plan is likely to pass.

McDonald’s recently posted strong earnings and revenue in the third quarter, but global same-store sales declined by 1.5%, with U.S. sales growing a modest 0.3%—short of analyst expectations.

CEO Chris Kempczinski highlighted the importance of a robust value foundation:

“You need a strong value proposition… Overlaid with food news and great marketing, this can drive strong customer engagement and full-margin checks.”

Challenges: E. Coli Outbreak Impact

A recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s slivered onions has impacted traffic and sales. The issue affected several franchise locations, particularly in states with high customer volumes, and will influence fourth-quarter earnings.

To address the fallout, McDonald’s is allocating over $100 million toward recovery efforts:

• $65 Million: Direct support for franchisees in the most affected states.
• $35 Million: Investments in marketing and traffic-driving initiatives to boost customer recovery.

Future Outlook

As McDonald’s prepares for 2025, its dual approach of expanded value offerings and recovery measures reflects its focus on navigating industry challenges while maintaining customer loyalty. With innovative menu strategies and targeted marketing, the company aims to balance affordability with profitability.