Restaurant Technology Trends in 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Explore restaurant technology trends in 2026, including AI, automation, digital ordering, workforce tools, connected kitchens, personalization, and profitability strategies today.
Aug 28, 2026
Understand how to evaluate a Kiosk system using key criteria including features, POS integration, hardware, pricing, customer experience, and support.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn how to calculate restaurant cost of goods using inventory, purchases, COGS percentage, variance reviews, and regular tracking for profitability.
Aug 31, 2026
Learn the startup costs of opening an ice cream shop, including rent, equipment, renovations, permits, inventory, labor, marketing, and reserves.
Aug 28, 2026
Learn practical ways to reduce labour costs through smarter scheduling, forecasting, productivity, cross-training, automation, overtime control, and performance monitoring strategies.
Aug 26, 2026
RaceTrac has appointed Jill Pemberton as chief financial officer, succeeding Karla Ahlert, who moves into the newly created role of chief administrative officer.
Aug 26, 2026
A restaurant P&L statement reveals sales, expenses, and profits, helping owners manage costs, improve margins, and plan finances more effectively.
Aug 26, 2026
Create a practical restaurant marketing plan by setting goals, targeting customers, choosing channels, budgeting wisely, scheduling campaigns, and measuring results.
Aug 24, 2026
Levain Bakery appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as co-CEOs, blending operational and marketing expertise to power national expansion and innovation while staying rooted in its brand values.
Aug 25, 2026
Blaze Pizza welcomes Tracy Stockard as Chief Marketing Officer, bringing decades of brand and franchise experience to drive strategic growth and guest engagement.
Aug 25, 2026
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Explore how McDonald’s strategic introduction of Extra Value Meals is reshaping the fast-food industry, driving sales, and customer loyalty.

McDonald’s recent introduction of the Extra Value Meals showcases the company's commitment to offering affordable options amidst rising menu prices. By expanding on its $5 Meal Deal and McValue platform, McDonald's aims to cater to consumer preferences and enhance affordability for its customers. CEO Chris Kempczinski's emphasis on core menu pricing as a key influencer of consumer value perceptions underscores the importance of offering competitive and attractive pricing strategies in the competitive fast-food industry.

According to reports from The Wall Street Journal, the individual costs of components in a Big Mac Meal can amount to more than $13, highlighting the significance of value meal offerings in providing cost-effective options for customers. McDonald’s strategic pricing in locations like New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area showcases the company's adaptability to meet regional pricing demands while maintaining a competitive edge. Similarly, fast-food chains like Chili’s leveraging menu items such as the 3 for Me meal at $10.99 demonstrate the industry-wide trend of providing value-driven options to attract and retain customers.
The fast-food industry's response to menu price inflation has been dynamic, with brands exploring innovative approaches to retain customer interest and drive sales. McDonald's collaboration with franchisees to address pricing concerns and introduce Extra Value Meals reflects a proactive approach to adapting to changing market dynamics. By offering financial support and affordable pricing solutions, McDonald’s emphasizes shared goals with franchisees to prioritize customer satisfaction and community affordability.
McDonald’s strategic roadmap includes expanding its Value Meals platform with new offerings such as $5 Sausage, Egg and Cheese McGriddles and $8 10-piece Chicken McNuggets Meals, along with promotional Snack Wraps at $2.99. These initiatives aim to not only attract new customers but also enhance customer loyalty through affordable and innovative menu options. The success of McDonald’s loyalty program and the incremental sales driven by value-focused strategies underline the effectiveness of adapting to evolving consumer preferences and market trends.