An Iconic McDonald’s Treat Is About to Get a Makeover — Here’s What to Expect

The company is changing the packaging of one popular treat to meet consumer demands around sustainability.

By Carl Stoffers | edited by Jessica Thomas | Sep 09, 2024

Key Takeaways

  • McDonald’s is revamping its McFlurry packaging, switching from plastic lids and mixing spoons to paper-based lids and reusable spoons.
  • The brand also announced a new Mini McFlurry.
  • The changes come as fast-food chains face increasing scrutiny over their environmental impact.

McDonald’s is giving its iconic McFlurry a makeover — but it’s not just about aesthetics. The fast-food giant is rolling out new packaging for its famous dessert as part of a larger initiative to enhance its sustainability efforts while also rolling out the new . After ditching the last year, the company is swapping out its traditional plastic lids for paper-based ones and reusable spoons, responding to ongoing for environmentally friendly packaging.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

This change aligns with McDonald’s overarching , which include reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. The company is continuing to phase out single-use plastics across its global operations.

The brand made the news often last summer, beginning with the launch of the Grandma McFlurry in May. The limited-time offering paid homage to the comforting treats often associated with grandmothers — and was a nod to a Gen Z-centric , “.” The trend draws inspiration from cozy, grandmotherly interests such as knitting, baking and an overall sense of nostalgic comfort.

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In June, McDonald’s launched its $5 Meal Deal, designed to provide value and relief to inflation-strapped consumers who were complaining loudly about fast food prices.

“We heard our fans loud and clear — they’re looking for even more great value from us, and this summer that’s exactly what they’ll get,” Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s USA, said in a in June. “Value has always been part of our DNA.”

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The announcement came after a May 29 from Erlinger addressing rumors and misconceptions about McDonald’s menu price increases. Meanwhile, McDonald’s move sparked competitors like Burger King, Wendy’s and others to to attract budget-conscious consumers.

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Key Takeaways

  • McDonald’s is revamping its McFlurry packaging, switching from plastic lids and mixing spoons to paper-based lids and reusable spoons.
  • The brand also announced a new Mini McFlurry.
  • The changes come as fast-food chains face increasing scrutiny over their environmental impact.

McDonald’s is giving its iconic McFlurry a makeover — but it’s not just about aesthetics. The fast-food giant is rolling out new packaging for its famous dessert as part of a larger initiative to enhance its sustainability efforts while also rolling out the new . After ditching the last year, the company is swapping out its traditional plastic lids for paper-based ones and reusable spoons, responding to ongoing for environmentally friendly packaging.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

This change aligns with McDonald’s overarching , which include reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. The company is continuing to phase out single-use plastics across its global operations.

Carl Stoffers • Senior Business Editor

Âé¶¹Éç Staff
Carl Stoffers is the Senior Business Editor at Âé¶¹Éç, where he covers the franchise industry.... Read more

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