McDonald's U.S. Sales Fall 3.6% as Budget Consumers Pull Back

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McDonald's U.S. sales dropped 3.6% in Q1 2025 - the steepest decline since the pandemic lockdowns of 2020.

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Low and middle-income consumer visits fell 'nearly double digits' as economic concerns mounted.

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Why are budget diners cutting back? Restaurant prices rose 3.8% while grocery inflation was just 2.4%.

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Consumer confidence hit a 14-year low in April 2025, with the Conference Board's Expectations Index plunging to 54.4.

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Digital channels provided a bright spot - McDonald's loyalty program generated $8 billion in Q1 sales.

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Not all chains are struggling equally - Taco Bell saw 9% growth with its $5 Luxe value box offerings.

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International markets performed better, with McDonald's developmental licensed markets growing 3.5%.

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McDonald's CEO cited 'pervasive pessimism' affecting spending habits due to tariff concerns and employment outlook.

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