McDonald's has made headlines throughout the year. From the recent link to the E. coli outbreak to rising concerns about affordability, McD has experienced many ups and downs this year. Over the years, the global fast-food chain has become a go-to for many citizens.
We have covered 5 moments when McD made news in 2024. Over the last few months, McD has tried to win back its customers by emphasizing food safety measures and introducing new offers, including the Season of Savings.
5 times McDonald's made headlines in 2024
McDonald's has established its presence in America and worldwide owing to its popularity for providing quick and affordable food. However, with popularity comes great responsibility to consumers across the world. 2024 has been a rollercoaster ride for McD with it making headlines for its gains and losses. Here are five McD moments that went viral:
1) Links to E.coli outbreak
In October, an E. coli outbreak in US states was reportedly linked to slivered onions in McD's Quarter Pounder burgers. McDonald's took quick action and retrieved all burgers from around 900 restaurants.
Beef samples from the burgers underwent a thorough investigation by the CDC and tested negative for E. coli. On December 3, the CDC and FDA closed the investigation and noted no food safety concerns at McDonald's.
2) Grimace became the New York Mets mascot
While Grimace has been a McD's character for decades, it regained viral popularity last year. McDonald's introduced the Grimace shake to celebrate the 52nd birthday of the character. Since then, the character has made news occasionally including being the mascot for the New York Mets who also threw the first pitch.
3) Donald Trump served fries
Presidential campaigns between Donald Trump and Campaigns were the talk of the season, with the former taking the lead. Trump surprised customers at McD Pennsylvania by trying his hands at the fries machine and held a press conference through the drive-thru window.
4) Revenue decline
Championing the food market has become more difficult than ever. Customers have many options and casual restaurants try to price match fast-food chains. McDonald's revenue reportedly took a hit this year and incurred the biggest sales decline in the past four years.
5) Rising prices
The prices have rapidly increased over the past few years, including items at fast-food chains. The brand was called out on social media for introducing a $18 Big Mac Meal. Termed 'McFlation', customers noted that the prices of their favorite McDonald's products have increased, including a $3 hashbrown.
The global food chain experienced a rough ride this year. With the hope of restoring its customer following, the brand has released some end-of-year and new-year offers.
Which McD news caught your attention this year? Tell us in the comments below.
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