Major Fast Food Chains Roll Out New Budget Deals for 2025
Big restaurant chains are kicking off a price battle for 2025, dropping meal prices down to $5. Since winter brings slower sales, these restaurants are hoping cheap deals will bring customers through their doors.
McDonald’s is pushing buy-one-get-one deals at steep discounts. Dunkin’ is offering $5 breakfast combos. KFC loaded up their bowls while keeping costs down. Subway has $6.99 rotating specials each day, while Taco Bell beefed up their value meals.
“You can’t discount your way to prosperity, and that’s why I think you haven’t seen such great traction with a lot of the promotional activity that’s gone on in QSR,” said Brett Schulman, CEO at Cava to Restaurant Dive.
McDonald’s rolled out app deals and regional offers – buy something and get another item for just a dollar. KFC filled their $5 bowls with crispy chicken bites covered in gravy, sitting on mashed potatoes topped with corn and cheese.
Subway offers six-inch subs for $6.99, or footlongs for $9.99. The menu changes daily. Taco Bell split their Cravings Box into two options at $5 and $9.
Wendy’s joined in with “2 for $7” options from four menu items. They’re hoping this quick round of deals will boost slow winter numbers.
Fast food visits have dropped as menu prices went up. But industry watchers see hope for 2025, particularly for places that balance good prices with good food.
“Winners will likely include QSR and fast-casual brands that can remain competitive on pricing without sacrificing the customer experience,” said Jeffrey Pielusko, managing director at Carl Marks Advisors.
