Customers are in an uproar as McDonald’s “$5 meal deal” is found costing up to $13 in some places.
Despite launching this summer offer as a budget-friendly option, the reality was quite different, leaving many to voice their discontent vividly online.
Expectations vs. Reality
The deal was supposed to include favorites like a McChicken or McDouble, with sides and a drink for just five dollars.
However, screenshots from disappointed customers show prices soaring much higher, igniting a frenzy on social media.
Social Media Erupts Over Misleading Pricing
Posts from frustrated diners started flooding platforms like X, formerly Twitter, with one customer, Pete Macy, expressing shock as his meal cost more than double the promised price.
This led to a rapid response from McDonald’s, which began addressing grievances online.
McDonald’s Investigates Pricing Discrepancies
Amidst the chaos, McDonald’s has started probing into why the prices at various locations have deviated from the national campaign.
They’ve made it clear to franchisees that adherence to advertised prices isn’t optional.
Customer Outrage Captured in Real-Time
Macy didn’t hold back.
He posted, ‘Shout out to McDonalds for offering a $5 meal deal for a mere $13,’ showcasing the surprising checkout total with a screenshot that quickly went viral.
Not Isolated Incidents: More Reports Flood In
Meghan Porro also voiced her disbelief, noting her “deal” came out to $6.29 before tax.
Her frustration was palpable as she highlighted the false advertising issue with her own receipt screenshot as evidence.
Calls for Explanation Over $5 Meal Deal
The grievances kept coming as another customer questioned the integrity of the deal: ‘why is this even called a $5 meal deal when it’s $6.30 McDonalds. I’m sick of y’all.’
This post, too, included a snapshot of the price at checkout.
The Underlying Causes of Price Variation
It turns out, the unexpected price points, like $6.30 and beyond, could be due to McDonald’s allowing certain high-cost locations to charge more.
This policy, however, has not quelled the disappointment and confusion among customers.
A Glimmer of Hope for Deal Seekers
Despite the backlash, some customers have managed to snag the deal at the expected price.
Jimmy Chonga shared, ‘Just got my $5 meal deal not too long ago. I’m lovin’ it,’ thanking McDonald’s and hoping the deal extends through the summer.
McDonald’s Financial Success Amid Pricing Critique
In the backdrop of these pricing issues, it’s notable that McDonald’s reported a staggering $14.5 billion profit last year.
This highlights the contrast between corporate profits and customer perceptions of value.
McDonald’s Battles Negative Price Perceptions
McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger responded to price hike criticisms with an open letter last month.
He stated that prices had only risen by 40% since the pandemic started, which he suggests isn’t as drastic as portrayed by some media.
Future of the $5 Meal Deal
The $5 deal’s future hangs in the balance as McDonald’s reassesses its strategy.
The promotion is set to continue briefly, offering a crucial period for McDonald’s to restore faith among its customer base and possibly adjust its pricing policies.
