McDonald's 20-Cent Discount: A Tiny Gesture or a Sign of the Times?

A recent discussion in an online community has turned a seemingly small discount offered by McDonald's into a significant talking point, revealing deeper frustrations about rising costs and consumer value. The initial post highlighted a 20-cent discount offered by the fast-food giant, questioning why it was being presented as a substantial saving.

The sentiment that 20 cents is a negligible discount quickly spread through the comments. Many users pointed out that such a small reduction barely makes a dent in the overall cost of meals, especially in the context of recent price adjustments. One commenter remarked:

"it's a 3% discount which offsets the gst increase"

However, the conversation rapidly moved beyond the mere 20-cent offer, becoming a platform for a broader critique of McDonald's pricing strategies and portion sizes. Many expressed a feeling that current "deals" are no longer as attractive as they once were. A user lamented:

"No longer have any deals worth going for. Used to have those 1 for 1 new burger promotions. Now can barely get any discounts from the app."

The concept of "shrinkflation"—where portions get smaller while prices remain the same or increase—was a recurring grievance. Commenters specifically pointed to burgers appearing smaller and less generous. One user shared their observation:

"Their burgers also getting real small now. The last time I ordered their fish burger, I thought it was a prank. Miniature burger for kids???"

Another commenter detailed a perceived pattern of "stealth price increases" and shrinking sizes over time:

"Every few months, when McDonalds' rolls out some kind of "discounted" deal, they're actually doing a stealth price increase. Don't believe me? Just monitor the Sausage Wrap meal. It went up from $5.30 > 5.80 > 6 > 6.60 > 6.80, and most recently $7.30 iirc. And if they don't do stealth price increases, they will instead do shrinkflation. You'll see less egg in your burger, smaller burger and packaging. McDonald's is no longer affordable now."

The prevailing sentiment was one of suspicion, with many believing the discount is a strategic move to mask underlying price hikes rather than a genuine gesture of savings. A user commented:

"They do these 'deals' with each round of price increase. Supermarkets are doing it too. They do a discount one month, increase the price and then do 'another' discount immediately but the discount is the original price from last month. It's meant to 'hide' the price increase for people who do not pay attention to prices."

While the vast majority expressed annoyance or cynicism, a few users took a more resigned or critical stance towards the complaining. One commenter noted:

"Another day in SG; up price because of GST hike kpkb, lower price to absorb GST hike also kpkb."

Another simply stated:

"lmao everything also complain."

Ultimately, the discussion highlights the heightened consumer awareness and sensitivity to value in challenging economic times. For many, a 20-cent discount from a major chain like McDonald's isn't seen as a gesture of goodwill, but rather a reminder of persistent inflation, shrinking portions, and perceived corporate strategies to maintain profit margins. It underscores how even the smallest commercial actions can trigger a broader conversation about cost of living and consumer trust in the online space.