By Susan Schwartz
The legendary 30 cent cone may now be worth a dollar, and international sales may be falling, but there is still some savings gold underneath the arches.
McDonald’s still has plenty of seriously cheap meal options – you just need to know how to work the menu.
Arguably the best genuine bargain is the $2 Hamburger (formerly Junior Burger) that comes with a meat patty, tomato sauce, mustard, onion and pickles.
Grab two of these and a small frozen Coke or Fanta for $1 and you have a full meal for only $5; or bump that up to $6 and grab a Soft Serve for $1.
If red meat is not for you, try a Ham and melted Cheese Pocket for $2.50, or a Chicken Snack Wrap (grilled/crispy) for $3.50.
For slightly more coin, there’s the McSmart Meal for $6.95 which includes a Cheeseburger, Small Fries, Small Soft Drink, plus a fourth item of your choice (Regular Sundae, a Chicken n Cheese, 3 piece Chicken McNuggets or second Cheeseburger).
I dare you to find a cheaper fast-food option.
Increased competition, the rising cost of living and inflation has brought McDonald’s global sales growth to a standstill, with a one percent dip in the first quarter of the year, compared to the same period in 2024.
“McDonald’s has a 70-year legacy of innovation, leadership, and proven agility, all of which give us confidence in our ability to navigate even the toughest of market conditions and gain market share,” said Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski.
“Consumers today are grappling with uncertainty, but they can always count on McDonald’s for both exciting new menu items and delicious favourites for exceptional value, from a brand they love.”
