For the first time, McDonald’s is bringing its McShaker Fries to participating U.S. locations. The new side is part of a larger December launch, The Grinch Meal, in partnership with Dr. Seuss Enterprises.
These fries have been served abroad in Australia and Canada, but never here. They’re the same fries McDonald’s fans know and love, but the side dish incorporates an extra element: seasoning packets. Customers pour both components into a bag, shake them, and enjoy.
Past flavors have included Sour Cream & Black Pepper to Churro and Masala. But the American version is new. The fries will be coated in dill pickle seasoning and served up with either a Big Mac or 10-piece Chicken McNuggets and a medium drink.
The Grinch Meal will also come with a pair of socks decorated with beloved characters The Grinch, Cindy Lou Who and Max.
McDonald’s included a message in the release statement from the Grinch himself, which the restaurant said was “handwritten on a crumpled paper from Mt. Crumpit.”
“THiS iS MY MEAL AND i DiDN’T PARTNER WiTH McDONALD’S OUT OF THE GOODNESS OF MY HEART,” the Grinch’s note read.
The holiday special comes after a year of McDonald’s partnerships that went right. A McDonaldland Meal, TinyTAN Happy Meal, and Minecraft Movie Meal. During the Minecraft promotion, same-store sales climbed 2.5 percent in the second quarter ending June 30, and global same-store sales rose 3.8 percent, the company said.
Because of post-pandemic headwinds, including rising inflation, McDonald’s customers have been concerned the chain is moving away from offering truly affordable meals.
In May 2024, McDonald’s president Joe Erlinger said it “frustrates and worries” him when he hears customers claiming prices have risen by 100 percent, rather than the actual 21 percent since 2019.
“Inflationary pressures have impacted all sectors of the economy, including ours. Our franchisees (who own and operate more than 95 percent of all restaurants in the U.S.) set menu prices for their restaurants, which account for the increased costs of running their businesses. In doing so, they work hard to minimize the impact of price increases on our fans.”
The Grinch meal will be available starting December 2. Prices will vary by location, although past Happy Meals have landed between $15 and $17.
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Ava Levinson
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