McDonald's Tests AI Drive-Thrus and Bigger Chicken Tenders in Push Beyond Fast Food
Updated
Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 1
McDonald's Tests AI Drive-Thrus and Bigger Chicken Tenders in Push Beyond Fast Food
3 articles · Updated · Bloomberg · Jun 1
McDonald’s is testing hand-breaded wings, larger chicken tenders and AI drive-thrus as it broadens a strategy to upgrade the customer experience.
New filets and other higher-quality chicken items are part of a wider push to make the chain feel less like traditional fast food and win more dining occasions.
Restaurant upgrades, including new playgrounds, and more engaging social media campaigns are meant to position McDonald’s as a first choice for family outings as well as quick meals.
Can McDonald's quest for 90-second AI efficiency coexist with its new goal of a higher-quality, 'less fast food' experience?
As McDonald's introduces premium items, can it keep its value-driven customers in a slowing 2026 economy?