McDonald’s may seem too big to fail, and it’s certainly nowhere near that kind of outcome right now.
Nevertheless, the global fast food leader posted its weakest post-pandemic sales figures for Q1 2025, with same-store sales falling most dramatically in the US.
The cost of living squeeze has seemingly damaged footfall in the low-income and middle-income customer brackets, and commentary around McDonald’s slowly increasing prices haven’t helped matters. Analysts say the brand has been caught in a tricky position — no longer the cheapest option on the high street, yet still heavily associated with affordability.
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In response, the company has been on a charm offensive in the US as it works to draw customers back under the Golden Arches.
The Snack Wrap, absent from US menus for almost 10 years, came home to a tonne of fanfare in July 2025, with its $2.99 being angled at smaller orders and value-add impulse buys.
Rumours have swirled around the fast food behemoth rejigging its menu for a more budget-friendly setup, and so it’s proven with the announcement that its Extra Value meals are making a comeback.
In a press statement published on 2 September 2025, it was confirmed that US customers will get a whopping eight meal options to choose from in the Extra Value range, including Big Mac, Sausage McMuffin with Egg and Chicken McNuggets options.
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The meal deals will roll out from 8 September 2025, with the eight options split across its breakfast, lunch and dinner menus.
Those deals will see customers save around 15% for the bundle compared with the total cost of each individual item.
The meals will come with the main course, a drink, and a side of fries.
Along with the aforementioned meals, you can look forward to Extra Value Sausage Egg & Cheese McGriddles, Egg McMuffin, Bacon, Egg and Cheese Biscuit, Quarter Pounder and McCrispy Sandwich meals.
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Oh, and the McNugget option features 10 of those puppies.
It doesn’t end there, with tailorable Quarter Pounder options including Original, Bacon, and Deluxe.
The same goes for the McCrispy Sandwiches, with Original, Deluxe, and Spicy Deluxe options to choose from.
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"McDonald’s USA is laser-focused on delivering value and affordability for our customers, and I’m incredibly proud of how our franchisees and teams continue to step up to make it a reality," said McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger in the press statement.
"From the $5 Meal Deal to McValue and now Extra Value Meals, we’re sending a clear message: we’re here for our customers. McDonald’s will always be a place where you can get the food you love at a price that fits your life.”
With pressure mounting from rivals like Burger King and Wendy’s, who’ve been leaning heavily into discount bundles and limited-time offers, the stakes are high.
For McDonald’s, Extra Value meals are not just about saving a few dollars — they’re a bid to restore the brand’s place as the default choice for affordable, everyday dining in America.
Rachael Davis