McDonald's(US:MCD) Zhong Guo Jing Ying Bao·2025-12-20 03:02Core Viewpoint - McDonald's has announced a price increase for certain menu items starting December 15, 2025, with prices rising by 0.5 to 1 yuan, affecting the "1+1 Flexible Combo" which will see some combinations priced at 14.9 yuan, disappointing many consumers [1][3]. Price Increase History - Over the past five years, McDonald's has reportedly raised prices five times, with an average annual increase of approximately 0.5 to 1 yuan per item [4][8]. - The "1+1 Flexible Combo" was first introduced in March 2019 at a price of 12 yuan, which has since increased to 14.9 yuan, representing a total increase of 2.9 yuan or over 24% [8]. - Specific examples include the "McFish Combo," which has risen from 21 yuan in 2019 to 34 yuan currently, an increase of 13 yuan [8]. Consumer Sentiment - Following the announcement of the price increase, many loyal customers expressed disappointment and frustration, with some considering switching to competitors or making their own burgers [9][11]. - Despite complaints about perceived reductions in portion sizes, McDonald's maintains that their product standards have not changed [11]. Market Expansion - China has become McDonald's second-largest and fastest-growing market globally, with plans to open 1,000 new stores in China by 2025, contributing to a total of over 10,000 stores by 2028 [11][12]. - In the third quarter of 2025, McDonald's reported total revenue of $7.078 billion, a 3% year-over-year increase, with comparable sales in the international development licensed market, including China, growing by 4.7% [11]. Brand Positioning - McDonald's has successfully built trust among Chinese consumers regarding food safety and quality, making it difficult for price increases to significantly alter consumer habits [12]. - The brand has also become popular among younger consumers, leveraging collaborations with various IPs to attract this demographic, including partnerships with popular franchises [16].