BARBECUE IN JULY: WHY FAST FOOD BRANDS ARE RETHINKING SEASONAL MENU CALENDARS

Key points

• McDonald's is breaking traditional autumn rollout schedules by testing the McRib in select summer markets.
• Supply chain logistics and commodity pork pricing dictate the timing and regional density of restructured protein promotions.
• Quick service chains are relying heavily on high-margin limited time offers to maintain store traffic amid broader inflation pressures.
• Franchisee cooperatives exercise regional autonomy to launch proven cult items when local supply conditions are favorable.

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Sources and methodology

Reported from the public datasets below.

• Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Consumer Price Index, food away from home
• Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) - Food services and drinking places series
• U.S. Census Bureau - Monthly Retail Trade, food services

All sources Foodie Pundit reports from

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