The True Cost of Fast Food: How Inflation Impacts Your Bill

Emma JohnsonApril 20, 20241 Mins read36 Views

It appears that if you’re looking for ways to contribute more to your favorite fast food joints, opportunities abound.

A recent analysis by Finance Buzz examined pricing trends across various fast food establishments and discovered that the majority have increased their prices by an average of 60% over the past decade. However, there are a select few chains that have shown a particular penchant for profit, hiking their prices at a rate more than double the inflation rate.

McDonald’s Leads the Charge

According to the study, McDonald’s has outpaced the overall inflation rate, with its prices surging to more than triple that rate. A case in point is the McChicken sandwich, which once was a staple of the $1 m e n u b u t n o w co mman d s a p r i ce t a g o f u p t o$ 3 at some outlets.

McDonald’s value menu, now significantly reduced, has also contributed significantly to the company’s revenue. The study’s findings indicate that other former budget-friendly items like the McDouble and medium fries have seen some of the most notable price jumps.

However, these findings may not come as a surprise. McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski recently acknowledged the company’s focus on “affordability” in light of challenges retaining “low-income consumers” who have been deterred by higher costs, such as the $18 for a Big Mac meal combo.

The Demise of the Dollar Menu

Following McDonald’s, the study reports that Popeyes has upped its prices by 86%, and Taco Bell has seen an 81% increase. Here are some key takeaways from these price changes:

Subway and Starbucks, which have both seen a 39% price increase over the past 10 years, now occupy the more affordable end of the spectrum. However, even these modest increases are noteworthy, as they are the only chains with a price hike under 50%.

Starbucks, in particular, may face further price adjustments, with up to an 8% increase in California due to higher worker wages.

In response to these market dynamics, KFC is taking a proactive approach. The fast food giant is promoting a new value menu designed to capture consumer interest through the end of 2024, offering a $4.99 box that includes a two-piece chicken (thigh and drumstick), mashed potatoes, and a biscuit.

The catch? Unlike traditional “combo” deals, this special offer does not include a beverage.