US McDonald's look to big McDeals

McDonald's US franchises are considering launching a US$5 (HK$39) meal deal as the fast-food chain looks to draw more inflation-hit customers to its restaurants.

The deal is said to include a McChicken or a McDouble along with fries and a drink.

On the company's first-quarter earnings call, chief executive Chris Kempczinski said McDonald's had to be "laser-focused on affordability" given how price-weary diners have become.

The company's results were weaker than expected.

At McDonald's, franchisees pay into an advertising fund and get to weigh in on major marketing campaigns, including promotions such as the viral Grimace Shake.

A prior attempt to get operators - who run about 95 percent of US stores - to endorse the US$5 meal initiative reportedly failed earlier this year.

Global restaurant chains such as McDonald's and Starbucks have seen lower-income customers opting to eat more meals at home amid a cost-of-living crisis, forcing the companies to offer steeper promotions.