Fast Food Summer Deals 2024: McDonald’s, Starbucks, Burger King & More

In response to rising prices and consumer demand for affordability, major fast-food chains like McDonald's, Starbucks, and Burger King are rolling out extensive meal promotions this summer. These initiatives aim to attract customers with value-packed combos, ranging from $5 meals at McDonald's to Starbucks' new pairings menu. With deals like Wendy's Biggie Bag and Checkers/Rally’s Fry Pass giveaway, consumers can enjoy substantial savings amid economic concerns.

Navigating the Fast-Food Price War: Summer 2024 Deals and Consumer Sentiment

In a recent report by Fortune, the value meal is a tried-and-true strategy for the chains to entice consumers back, as they continue to withdraw from fast-food restaurants due to price concerns amid urgent inflation. Although combo meals are typical in the fast service industry, this summer, more of them were witnessed than at any time in recent memory.

Part of this is the consequence of "McFlation" claims, which were made in response to reports of chicken sandwiches priced at nearly $8 and Big Mac meals priced at $18. (McDonald's USA president Joe Erlinger addressed this issue last month by issuing a public letter to refute the "viral social posts and poorly sourced reports that McDonald's has raised prices significantly beyond inflationary rates.")

Consumers believe fast food has become excessively expensive, and this sentiment is not limited to McDonald's. This has resulted in a price war currently being waged on multiple fronts.

Summer 2024 Fast-Food Bonanza: Explore Exclusive Deals and Promotions

Take a peek at the meal deals and promotions consumers can use during the summer of 2024.

McDonald’s

Yahoo Finance reported that the fast-food chain would offer a new $5 meal at most of its locations starting June 25. This meal includes a McDouble cheeseburger or McChicken sandwich, small French fries, four-piece Chicken McNuggets, and a small soft drink.

The company also promotes promotions provided by local franchisees, which differ from store to store. For instance, certain McDonald's locations in Memphis provide breakfast sandwiches at a discounted price, while Columbus locations provide a double cheeseburger and small fries for $3.50.

Additionally, the chain offers a promotion until the end of the year, allowing customers to receive a complimentary medium fry with a minimum purchase of $1.

Starbucks

Starbucks is not recognized for its combo meals; however, in response to market competition, the coffee chain has implemented a new "pairings menu." This menu lets customers combine a tall hot or iced tea or coffee with various fundamental foods, such as a butter croissant or breakfast sandwich. The limited-time offer is priced between $5 and $6.

Burger King

Burger King reinstated its $5 Your Way Meal on June 13, offering customers the option of selecting from a Whopper Jr., Bacon Cheeseburger, or Chicken Jr., in addition to fries, a four-piece chicken nugget, and a soft drink. It was determined not to be left behind. The promotion is anticipated to be in effect for the summer.

Wendy’s

Wendy's is increasing the quantity of food in its $5 Biggie Bag and providing a complimentary small Frosty with all orders placed through the company's app. (You can select chocolate or triple berry varieties.) The combo includes a small soft drink, fries, four-piece chicken tenders, and a choice of sandwiches (either a double junior bacon cheeseburger or a crispy chicken sandwich). The agreement will remain in effect until June 30.

From July 1 to July 7, Wendy's will provide customers with a complimentary small Frosty with any $5 purchase when they utilize the app.

Checkers/Rally’s

From July 1 to July 12, admirers of the sister chains will have the opportunity to win a Fry Pass, providing them with a year's supply of fully loaded fries. The chains intend to select 100 victors.

Furthermore, between July 12 and July 14, Checkers and Rally will offer a complimentary regular-size Fully Loaded fry order with any purchase made through the company's app.

Chipotle

Chipotle is currently offering only some significant, innovative new combinations. However, the company is offering five customers the opportunity to obtain the Celebrity Card, which will grant them access to one complimentary meal per day at the restaurant and the ability to cater to up to 50 individuals once annually. Using the hashtag #CelebCardContest, fans can submit their applications for the card on TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter/X until July 3. The winners will be notified on July 12.

Taco Bell

On June 27, Taco Bell introduced its Luxe Cravings Box, which became a part of the value meal battles. The $7 combo includes a Chalupa Supreme, a Beefy 5-Layer Burrito, a Double Stacked Taco, chips, nacho cheese sauce, and a medium fountain drink. The company did not specify the promotion time frame.

Chili’s

Do you enjoy hamburgers? What do we mean by "really like burgers?" Chili's is providing a lifetime supply to a single fortunate recipient. (Technically, the prize consists of $31,200 in Chili's gift cards and a $10,296 cash payment to satisfy taxes, which equates to a 40-year supply of burgers.) To win, you must score highest on the company's updated version of the classic arcade video game BurgerTime. The contest is accessible to customers who are 18 years of age or older and will continue until July 14.

Photo: Microsoft Bing