Fast food prices are undeniably on the rise, and customers are starting to push back. What was once a cheap and convenient option for a quick meal has now become a source of frustration for many. Reports of “shrinkflation” and price hikes have sparked complaints from budget-conscious consumers who feel they can no longer afford to eat at their favorite fast food chains, with McDonald’s being a prime example.
Recent reports indicate that McDonald’s prices have risen 100% over the past ten years, and this has not gone unnoticed by customers. Comments on one Reddit post in the inflation subreddit have made this clear.
McDonald’s posts rare profit miss as customers turn picky
byu/rockit454 ininflation
McDonald’s customers complain about prices
Recently, a user on the inflation subreddit drew attention to a Reuters article detailing McDonald’s recent financial struggles. “Middle class consumers are finally voting with their wallets and telling them to shove it with their insane price increases,” the user wrote.
The article explains that the fast food giant missed its quarterly profit estimates for the first time in two years. According to McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski, “Consumer is certainly being very discriminating in how they spend their dollar … I think it’s important to recognize that all income cohorts are seeking value.” Despite efforts to offer value, global comparable sales growth slid for the fourth straight quarter to 1.9%, falling short of analysts’ estimates.
Kempczinski acknowledged that the company’s affordability advantage has waned, saying, “We have seen that our relative superiority on affordability has declined in some markets.” This has been attributed to the rising costs of raw items like eggs. However, this move has not sat well with many customers.
Comments on the Reddit post highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among consumers. One user pointed out, "This will keep happening. It used to be cheap, quick food for people with lower incomes. Now, it is just trash food that cost 100-300% more in the last 3 years." Another commenter sarcastically noted, "'Picky' is a funny way of saying 'Not willing to pay 18 bucks for a drive through burger and fries.'"
For many, the increased prices at McDonald’s mean that it no longer offers the value it once did. As one user commented, "I can go to a real restaurant and pay slightly more for way better food." Others echoed this sentiment, pointing out that the price hikes have made McDonald's less competitive compared to other fast food chains. "If that isn't the understatement of the year. Especially when charts clearly show McDonald’s raised their prices more than any other similar fast food establishment," said a disgruntled customer.
The frustration has led some to boycott McDonald's altogether. One commenter declared, "I swore off McDonald's for good. Their prices are 100% higher since 2014. Seems like a lot of folks had the same idea." Another shared their experience, stating, "My wife and I can afford McDonald’s once in a while, but we have stopped because it’s not worth almost 30 dollars for limp fries and a burger. Now I’m being stubborn and just saying eff these greedy companies."
The discontent is clear: McDonald's, once known for its affordability, is now facing criticism for pricing itself out of reach for many of its loyal customers. As the cost of living continues to rise, consumers are becoming more selective about where they spend their money, and it appears that McDonald's may need to rethink its pricing strategy to regain its reputation for value.
