News (EN)

McDonalds launches McValue menu with 10 items under $3 starting April 21

McDonalds
Photo: McDonalds - monticello/ Shutterstock.com

McDonalds announced a revamp of its economical menu with the aim of offering more simplicity and affordable options to customers. Starting April 21, the new McValue menu includes at least 10 individual items priced under $3 at participating restaurants at Estados Unidos. The change seeks to meet demand for greater flexibility and better value for money, especially in the mornings.

The fast food giant listened to consumer feedback and decided to standardize its selection of budget-friendly items. Isso replaces the previous model, which required the purchase of a full-price product to access additional options for $1. Agora, customers can choose directly from the Under 3 Menu options with no mandatory combinations.

  • Breakfast items on the new menu include Sausage McMuffin, Sausage Biscuit, Sausage Burrito, hash browns and McCafé medium coffee.
  • Options for lunch and dinner include McChicken, McDouble, 4 Chicken McNuggets, small portion of fries and medium soft drink.

Change to clearer communication in the economic menu

McDonalds opted for a direct approach in McValue to reduce customer doubts at the time of ordering. Franqueados reported that the new structure makes service easier because promotions are clear without the need for complex explanations. Cerca 95% of stores in Estados Unidos are operated by franchisees, who set final prices within the chain’s guidelines.

This simplification follows similar movements by other fast food chains. Taco Bell introduced Luxe Value Menu with 10 items for 3 dollars or less in January. Panera Bread launched its first budget menu in February with options for $4.99 each.

Wendy’s reformulated Biggie Deals at the beginning of the year, offering packages for 4, 6 and 8 dollars. KFC added $5 bowls to its recent menu. Todas The actions aim to win back price-sensitive consumers after years of adjustments motivated by inflation in food.

Breakfast items are highlighted at McValue

Half of the options under $3 on the updated menu are items served in the morning. McDonalds also introduces a new $4 breakfast package that includes Sausage McMuffin or Sausage Biscuit, hash browns and McCafé small coffee. Essa Offer complements the combined meals already available for lunch and dinner.

The company has seen an improvement in customer value perception since 2024. However, internal surveys indicated a desire for more flexible options in the morning shift. The new setup allows consumers to assemble personalized meals with affordable individual items.

Scott Rodrick, franchisee at Califórnia, highlighted that the value proposition has become more transparent. Ele expects orders to flow more quickly in stores under its operation.

McDonald's
McDonald’s – travelarium.ph/shutterstock.com

Competition drives price wars in the sector

Fast food chains maintain their focus on value promotions while launching premium products in parallel. Exemplos include the Big Arch McDonalds hamburger and temporary items such as the Peppercorn BLT Whopper from Burger King. The strategy combines discounts on classics with higher ticket new products.

Sector data shows that the flow of customers in fast food restaurants registered a slight increase of less than 1% in February compared to the same month of the previous year. Nos last months of 2025 and in January, the movement had retreated. Analistas point out that factors such as the price of gasoline have influenced recent consumption behavior.

McDonalds launched a $5 meal in June 2024 and promoted Refeições Extra Value last fall with a 15% discount on combos. McValue debuted in January 2025 and is now expanding.

Expert opinions on the concept of value in fast food

Marketing professors note that the term value has become a standard expectation in fast-food retailing. Roger Beahm, from Wake Forest University, comments that constant offers can reduce the perceived impact over time. Jennifer Fritch, from Arcadia University, warns that relying solely on price turns the product into a commodity and does not sustain a competitive advantage.

Younger consumers seek experiences, personalization and transparency about ingredients. Redes Those who balance an affordable price with these elements tend to maintain greater loyalty.

McDonalds plans to roll out the updated menu at most participating locations starting April 21. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to align the offering with current cost-benefit expectations.