The COVID-19 pandemic forced a lot of people to stay at home and use apps to have food delivered to them. This trend has benefited fast food giants, especially McDonald's.
Even after the lockdown was lifted and the pandemic restrictions have eased up, this habit is still a part of many people's lives, and it is evident in the new advertisement that Mcdonald's released in the UK.
McDonald's Controversial Ad
The said advertisement is meant to entice the public to use Mcdonald's app because when one gets enough MyRewards points, they can enjoy free menu items such as McChicken Sandwiches, Big Macs, McFlurry sundaes, and more.
However, the jolly and fun ad was panned by critics for promoting unhealthy eating habits. As reported by ZDNet, the commercial showed a truck driver who ate Mcdonald's the entire day while he was on the road. He raked enough points to get a free McChicken sandwich that is brought at home.
Even though the commercial's agenda is to show the perks of using the McDonald's app, ZDNet's Chris Matyszczyk pointed out that what the fast food giant wants is for the public to constantly use the app to gain enough MyRewards points for free menu items, and that it "doesn't set a healthy example for those who'd like to live a long time."
McDonald's Rewards Scheme
The controversial commercial is part of the points-based rewards scheme that McDonald's UK launched in July.
On July 23, the fast food giant held an event in London that featured several celebrities, such as YouTuber Yung Filly and rapper Mist, that dished out free merchandise like branded bags, bucket hats, and water bottles.
The fast food giant also gave away MyRewards points during the event, and they can be redeemed for menu treats using the McDonald's app.
According to The Drum, the fast food giant is planning to reveal more offers via a series of events, including a show by grime artist Aitch in Manchester and a lower-key stunt in London by YouTuber Yung Filly.
The events will also showcase McFlurry vans that will hand out freebie desserts to Londoners.
McDonald's franchisee manager, Claude Abi-Gerges, said that the MyRewards launch in the UK would give customers the chance to earn and enjoy rewards on some of their favorite menu items.
Abi-Gerges added that customers could donate their points to three charity partners, enabling them to help many local families who need free meals.
McDonald's also held an event in Birmingham on July 28, where social media personality LadBaby attended and offered customers a fun and unforgettable drive-through experience.
Bringing Chicken Big Mac to the US
Aside from the nationwide launch of the MyRewards feature in the UK, McDonald's is also preparing to launch the Chicken Big Mac in the US in late August, according to CNN.
The Chicken Big Mac is similar to the original version, but it replaces the beef two patties with two tempura chicken patties. It also includes the signature Big Mac sauce, lettuce, pickles, and American cheese.
The highly anticipated menu item will be available for dine-in and delivery via the McDonald's app.
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Written by Sophie Webster
