McDonald’s, an iconic global fast-food chain known for its burgers and fries, also had a reputation for its breakfast menu, particularly its bagels. However, to the surprise of many, the company decided to discontinue bagels from its menu in early 2022. In this article, we delve into the details of when and why McDonald’s got rid of bagels and how customers responded to this change.
McDonald’s officially discontinued bagels from its menu on January 24, 2022, as part of an effort to simplify their menu and improve service speed. However, they made a surprising return on March 21, 2023, in select markets like West Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio.
The Discontinuation Timeline
McDonald’s decided to stop serving bagels in its restaurants in early 2022. More precisely, the official announcement regarding the permanent discontinuation of bagels and breakfast wraps came on January 24, 2022. The bagels were temporarily removed from the menu during the COVID-19 pandemic when the fast-food chain decided to run a reduced menu. Despite customers’ hopes for their return, the company confirmed that bagels and breakfast wraps would not be making a comeback. That said, bagels made a surprising return on March 21, 2023, in select markets like West Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Ohio.
The Official Reason for the Discontinuation
The official reason given by McDonald’s for discontinuing bagels was to simplify their menu and improve service speed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the fast-food chain removed over 100 menu items to focus on drive-thru and takeout services. Limited sales of the bagel and the introduction of other popular breakfast options, such as the Egg McMuffin and the Sausage McMuffin, also contributed to the decision.
Customers’ Reaction to the Discontinuation
Customers had mixed reactions to McDonald’s decision to remove bagels from their menu. While some expressed disappointment and even anger, others took to social media to voice their dismay. A few customers even started a petition on Change.org to bring back the bagel meals. However, McDonald’s stood by its decision, hinting at the possibility of introducing new breakfast items in the future.
The Return of Bagels
The return of bagels at McDonald’s was announced in March 2023. Customers can now choose from four bagel sandwich options: Steak, Egg and Cheese; Bacon, Egg and Cheese; Sausage, Egg and Cheese; or just an Egg and Cheese option. These bagel sandwiches are available at participating McDonald’s locations in select markets, mostly on the East Coast of the U.S.
McDonald’s Business Strategy
McDonald’s decision to discontinue and later reintroduce bagels aligns with its current business strategy, which focuses on cost leadership, international market expansion, and a heavily franchised business model. The company’s growth strategy, called “Accelerating the Arches,” revolves around three main pillars: maximizing marketing, committing to core products, and doubling down on the four Ds (delivery, digital, data, and drive-thru).
In summary, McDonald’s decision to get rid of bagels was part of a broader strategy to streamline its menu and improve service speed. While the decision was initially met with disappointment by some customers, the recent reintroduction of bagels in select markets has been well-received. Whether or not bagels will make a full comeback to McDonald’s menu remains to be seen. Regardless, the fast-food chain continues to adapt and evolve to meet the changing tastes and preferences of its customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Were bagels a popular menu item at McDonald’s?
While some customers certainly enjoyed McDonald’s bagels, the company has not released specific sales data on individual menu items. The decision to discontinue the bagels suggests that they may not have been among the most popular items.
Are bagels available at all McDonald’s in the select markets where they were reintroduced?
The bagels are available at participating McDonald’s locations in the select markets where they were reintroduced. However, it’s always best to check with your local McDonald’s to confirm their availability.
Did McDonald’s discontinue any other breakfast items?
In addition to bagels, McDonald’s also discontinued breakfast wraps as part of its menu simplification strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Has McDonald’s reintroduced any other discontinued items?
The article only mentions the reintroduction of bagels. However, McDonald’s has been known to bring back popular items for limited times, typically as part of promotional campaigns.
Are the reintroduced bagels the same as the ones that were discontinued?
The article doesn’t specify whether the reintroduced bagels are identical to the ones that were discontinued. However, the bagel sandwich options mentioned suggest that they are similar.
