McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD) is preparing a new set of value promotions that will begin in April, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. The initiative centers on lower‑priced menu choices aimed at increasing flexibility and selection for customers.
People familiar with the discussions told the newspaper that the upcoming value push will include a menu of items priced at $3 and less. In addition to those lower‑priced choices, the chain is putting together breakfast bundles priced at $4.
In a message to franchisees, a copy of which was viewed by the Wall Street Journal, McDonald’s said: "We have achieved incredible progress together and remain committed to meeting ever-changing customer needs." The communication underscores the company’s intent to align promotions with evolving consumer demand.
The planned offers are being positioned as a competitive response within the fast food market. While details about the exact items or the duration of the offers were not disclosed in the report, the stated price tiers - $3 or less for select menu items and $4 for breakfast meals - provide clear targets for the chain’s value messaging.
Management’s outreach to franchisees and the framing of new deals as a way to meet customer needs suggest coordinated planning across company and franchise operations. The report does not provide further operational specifics, such as timing beyond the month of April or the geographic scope of the roll-out.
What to watch
- Whether the $3 and $4 price tiers are limited‑time promotions or intended to persist across markets.
- Franchisee execution and local menu choices, which will affect how broadly the deals are adopted.
- Competitive responses from other quick‑service chains that may influence promotional intensity.