McDonald’s Menu Shakeup: Details On Beloved International Favorite & New Burger Coming to America

McDonald’s, the global fast-food giant, is making waves in the burger world with two significant menu developments: the nationwide launch of the Chicken Big Mac in the United States and the testing of a new burger called the Big Arch which has also been released in Canada.

Chicken Big Mac: A New Spin on a Classic

After successful trials in select markets (in Florida for years), McDonald’s has decided to roll out the Chicken Big Mac across the United States. It’s been a favorite in countries like Australia and the UK since its introduction in 2022.

This offering puts a poultry twist on the iconic Big Mac, featuring:

• Two crispy chicken patties instead of beef
• The classic Big Mac sauce
• Shredded lettuce, American cheese, and pickles
• The signature three-piece bun

The nationwide launch comes in response to growing consumer demand for chicken options and the success of similar items in other markets, including the UK and Australia.

Big Arch: Testing the Waters

Simultaneously, McDonald’s is testing a new burger called the Big Arch in select markets like Canada, Portugal, and an as yet to be announced third market. Last week the news of the Big Arch hit in a full roll-out across Canada.

It features:

• Two quarter pound beef patties
• Premium toppings, including leaf lettuce, pickles, and onions
• Crispy onions, white cheese
• A unique sauce to differentiate it from other menu items called the Big Arch Sauce
• Toasted sesame and poppy seed bun

The Big Arch is currently in a limited test phase, with McDonald’s gauging customer response before deciding on a potential wider rollout.

Canadians have had a mixed response so far with many liking the Big Arch but not the price which is at $9 for just the sandwich.

Comparing the Big Arch to the Arch Deluxe

The introduction of the Big Arch inevitably draws comparisons to the infamous Arch Deluxe, a premium burger McDonald’s launched in 1996 and discontinued shortly after due to poor sales. Here’s how they compare:

1. Target Audience:

• Arch Deluxe: Aimed at adults with a “sophisticated” palate
• Big Arch: Appears to target a broader audience, including younger consumers

1. Marketing Approach:

• Arch Deluxe: Massive $100 million marketing campaign
• Big Arch: More subdued, localized testing approach

1. Ingredients:

• Arch Deluxe: Featured a quarter-pound beef patty, bacon, leaf lettuce, tomato, cheese, onion, and a mustard-mayonnaise sauce
• Big Arch: Features two quarter pound beef patties and much of the same ingredients but with the addition of crispy onions and a savory sauce

1. Pricing Strategy:

• Arch Deluxe: Priced at a premium, which contributed to its failure
• Big Arch: Pricing strategy not yet revealed, but likely to be more in line with current menu items. Canadians are reporting $9 for the burger alone.

1. Market Context:

• Arch Deluxe: Launched when McDonald’s was trying to appeal to adult tastes
• Big Arch: Enters a market where consumers are already accustomed to premium fast-food options but designed to cater to customers that want a bigger burger.

The introduction of the Chicken Big Mac and the testing of the Big Arch reflect McDonald’s strategy to:

1. Capitalize on the growing popularity of chicken menu items
2. Explore options to refresh its burger lineup
3. Compete with both traditional rivals and emerging fast-casual chains

Early consumer response to the Chicken Big Mac has been largely positive, with many praising the familiar flavor in a new format. The Big Arch, still in its testing phase, has generated buzz among McDonald’s enthusiasts eager to try the new offering.

Looking Ahead

As McDonald’s continues to evolve its menu, the success of these new items could shape the company’s future strategies. The nationwide launch of the Chicken Big Mac suggests confidence in its appeal, while the cautious testing of the Big Arch indicates a more measured approach to introducing new burgers, possibly learning from the Arch Deluxe experience.

For now, fast-food fans across the U.S. can enjoy the Chicken Big Mac, while those in test markets will have the opportunity to try the Big Arch and potentially influence its future on the McDonald’s menu.