McDonald’s Christmas miracle, Subway’s sub flub, and the power of simplicity

On this week’s Extra Serving, NRN editor in chief Sam Oches and executive editor Alicia Kelso discuss the latest restaurant industry news, including McDonald’s big win with its Grinch Meal, Subway’s controversial Sub Club revamp, and the trend of restaurant companies pushing more for menu simplicity. First up is McDonald’s new Grinch Meal release, which came with either a Big Mac or 10-piece McNugget, plus “Grinch Salt” McShaker Fries and collectible socks. The promotion, which launched Dec. 2, has been so popular that markets are starting to sell out. Sam and Alicia discuss the promotion and why it struck a chord with consumers. Next up is Subway, which revamped its Sub Club with a deal that offers a free footlong for every three purchased. Franchisees aren’t happy about the deal, which they said hurts profitability. Sam and Alicia are inclined to agree, and break down why a deal like this is tough for Subway of all chains. Then they dig into a story Alicia recently wrote about menu simplicity and why several companies are beginning to pull back after years of innovations and LTOs. Could we be seeing some decision fatigue among consumers especially? Finally, managing editor Leigh Anne Zinsmeister interviews Vishal Patel, cofounder at Tacoria Mexican Street Kitchen.

For more on these stories:

McDonald’s brings McShaker Fries to the U.S.

Subway franchisees say the chain's new loyalty program is too aggressive

Why simplicity matters more than ever for restaurants