Story perspectives
Fast-Food Prices Surge: McDonald's Targets Budget Shoppers
11/19/2025
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Story summary
- Prices at fast-food restaurants have risen 3.2% year over year, impacting low-income families, according to a report.
- McDonald's Chief Executive Christopher Kempczinski says visits from lower-income customers have declined, while higher-income diners are spending more.
- McDonald's menu items rose 40% from 2019 to 2024.
- The company has faced rising costs for salaries and food.
- To attract budget-conscious customers, McDonald's introduced a $1 menu and brought back Snack Wraps, boosting traffic.
