McDonald's Sees Boost from Value-Focused Strategy

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McDonald's reported a 5.7% jump in global same-store sales for the fourth quarter of 2026, beating Wall Street expectations. The company attributed the strong performance to its focus on value offerings, including discounted combo meals and the return of popular items like the Snack Wrap. McDonald's also saw increased traffic in the U.S. and international markets through limited-time promotions and locking in pricing on value menu items.

Why it matters

McDonald's value-focused strategy appears to be resonating with customers, particularly those with lower household incomes, who the company had previously acknowledged were no longer seeing the brand as a good value. This shift suggests McDonald's is effectively addressing affordability concerns and recapturing market share in a challenging economic environment.

The details

McDonald's cut prices on some U.S. combo meals in September 2025, building on earlier discounts that year on its McValue menu. The return of the popular Snack Wrap for $2.99 also helped improve value perceptions. In international markets like Australia, the company locked in pricing on value items for 12 months starting in July. McDonald's also boosted U.S. traffic in Q4 with limited-time offers like the return of its Monopoly game and a Grinch-themed meal.

• McDonald's cut prices on some U.S. combo meals in September 2025.
• The Snack Wrap returned to menus in July 2025 for $2.99.
• McDonald's locked in pricing on value items for 12 months in Australia starting in July 2025.
• McDonald's brought back its Monopoly game promotion in the U.S. in October 2026.
• McDonald's offered a Grinch-themed meal in the U.S. in December 2026.