McDonald's responds to cost-of-living crisis with the McSmart Meal

As the cost of living continues to climb, Australians feel the pinch in every aspect of their daily lives.

In response to the growing financial strain and public outcry over rising prices, McDonald's Australia developed a savvy solution to ease the burden on consumers' wallets.


Enter the McSmart Meal, a new meal deal that's causing quite a stir Down Under.

The Australia-exclusive meal is the fast-food giant's answer to the cost-of-living crisis gripping the nation.

For $6.95, customers can enjoy a choice of two Cheeseburgers, two Chicken' n' Cheese burgers, or one of each, accompanied by a small serving of fries and a small soft drink.


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The McSmart Meal is the fast-food chain's nod to the cost-of-living crisis customers face. Image Credit: McDonald's


McDonald's Australia's Marketing Manager, Tobi Fukushima, acknowledged the importance of value in these trying times.

'We know how much it means to our customers to offer value, which has never been more important than today,' he said.

'Customers can now make the smart choice at Macca's with the McSmart Meal, as part of our ongoing commitment to serving the taste that customers know and love, but with even greater value.'

The McSmart Meal is available daily from 10:30 am to midnight through McDonald's restaurants nationwide and the MyMacca app on iOS and Android.


This initiative follows expert analysis highlighting McDonald's price increases as being 'well beyond' the inflation rate.

Graham Cooke, Head of Consumer Research at Finder, pointed out that the price of large fries has soared by more than 50 per cent since 2019.

Consequently, the cost of a classic Angus burger has risen over 25 per cent.

Rising grocery costs, among other things, have become a significant concern for Australians.

Finder's monthly consumer sentiment tracker survey revealed that worry over grocery expenses has jumped from 15 per cent to 41 per cent over the last three years, matching concerns about rent or mortgage payments.

'Because of that, people are focusing more on food costs, not only in the supermarkets but restaurants and fast-food places. They're analysing their spending much more than previously,' Cooke explained.


Social media recently went abuzz with reactions to McDonald's pricing, with one customer expressing shock at the 'Loose Change' menu, which features 24-piece nuggets for $11.95.

'How can $12 be loose change?' customers asked.

Along with the price hike, customers reminisced about cheaper fast-food prices, with hamburgers at $1 and Chicken' n' Cheese burgers at $3.

Despite the criticism, McDonald's remained 'committed' to offering great value, highlighting items on the Loose Change Menu that start at $1 for a small Frozen Coke or Frozen Fanta and $2 for a Hamburger.

Additionally, the franchise launched the Big Breakfast Deal, which includes two McMuffins, two Hash Browns, and a Medium McCafé Hot Coffee for $12.95.

The McSmart Meal was a strategic move by McDonald's to stay relevant in a market with cost-conscious consumers.

It's a reminder that even global giants must adapt to the economic realities of their customers.

As Australians navigate the current financial landscape, the McSmart Meal is a beacon of value in a sea of rising costs.
Key Takeaways

  • McDonald's Australia launched the McSmart Meal, an affordable meal deal amid rising cost-of-living complaints.
  • The McSmart Meal includes two burgers, small fries, and a small soft drink for $6.95, catering to customers' need for value.
  • The deal came after consumer sentiments towards rising fast-food prices, with price hikes outpacing inflation.
  • Customers can order The McSmart Meal from 10:30 am to midnight daily and can be ordered in-store or through the MyMacca's app.
Have you tried the McSmart Meal yet? Is it a smart move for the fast-food chain? Share your opinions with us in the comments below!
 
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We should not be supporting these BLACKROCK owned Fast food Chains, nor promote their unhealthy ultra processed Foods, causing the Obesity Epidemic ,and should be getting highly taxed like Cigs ,Fruits and Veggies should be subsidised instead
 
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Maccas would have to be the most expensive take away junk slop in Australia. I'd rather go to a real take away for a real burger any day before eating a McSloppy burger.
 
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