Restaurants: Sweet News from the Golden Arches: McDonald's Confirms Blueberry & Crème Pie's Return, Plus More Summer Treats

Why the Topic is Trending: Beloved Dessert's Comeback and Exciting New Menu Additions

• Return of a Fan-Favorite: The confirmed return of the Blueberry & Crème Pie is generating excitement among McDonald's customers who look forward to it annually.

• Introduction of Other New Summer Treats: The article also highlights the nationwide launch of the Daily Double, the popularity of the Hershey's S'mores McFlurry, the permanent addition of Lemonade, and the upcoming return of the Snack Wrap, indicating a significant menu refresh.

• Timing for Summer and July 4th: The arrival of these treats just in time for summer and the Independence Day holiday makes them relevant for road trips, BBQs, and general warm-weather enjoyment.

• Positive Customer Reactions: The article includes positive feedback from Redditors about several of the new and returning menu items, indicating consumer enthusiasm.

Overview: McDonald's Sweetens Summer with Blueberry & Crème Pie, Daily Double Nationwide, and More McDonald's has officially announced the return of its popular Blueberry & Crème Pie, a seasonal favorite that is now available for a limited time. This delicious dessert features blueberries and vanilla crème in McDonald's signature crust. In addition to this sweet treat, the article confirms the nationwide rollout of the Daily Double burger, the ongoing popularity of the new Hershey's S'mores McFlurry, the permanent addition of Lemonade to the menu, and the highly anticipated return of the Snack Wrap later this month. These menu updates showcase McDonald's efforts to offer a mix of returning favorites, new indulgent treats, and expanded options to cater to a wide range of customer preferences this summer.

Detailed Findings: Savoring McDonald's Summer Menu Highlights

• Blueberry & Crème Pie's Return: McDonald's confirmed the return of the fan-favorite Blueberry & Crème Pie on June 27th for a limited time. It features blueberries and vanilla crème layered side-by-side in McDonald's baked premium crust, served warm. Customer anticipation and positive reactions, including from Redditors, are highlighted.

• Daily Double Nationwide: The Daily Double burger, made with two beef patties, American cheese, shredded lettuce, slivered onions, mayo, and two slices of tomato, is being rolled out across all McDonald's locations nationwide. It will be added to the McValue menu starting July 22nd. A Redditor shared their longtime personal history with this burger, which was once a "secret sandwich" in some locations.

• Hershey’s S’mores McFlurry: This new McFlurry, featuring classic vanilla soft serve blended with Hershey’s milk chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows, has already become a hit with customers, described as "soooooo good" and praised for its crunchy texture and Hershey's bits.

• Lemonade Permanently Added: After a successful test in select markets in March 2023, McDonald’s has now permanently added Lemonade to its menu. It is made with real lemon juice, bits of lemon pulp, and real cane sugar, with customer feedback during testing being overwhelmingly positive, even comparing it favorably to Minute Maid.

• Snack Wrap's Anticipated Return: McDonald’s is bringing back the popular Snack Wrap to its menus starting July 10th after years of customer requests. The article notes the excitement surrounding its return, with anticipation depending on the quality of the McCrispy chicken strips used in the wrap.

Key Success Factors of Product (Trend): McDonald's Strategy for Summer Menu Appeal

• Capitalizing on Seasonal Favorites: The return of the Blueberry & Crème Pie aligns with summer fruit flavors and caters to seasonal nostalgia.

• Expanding Value Offerings: The nationwide launch of the Daily Double as a McValue item addresses the demand for affordable meal options.

• Leveraging Popular Brand Collaborations: The Hershey's S'mores McFlurry taps into the beloved s'mores flavor profile and the recognizable Hershey's brand.

• Responding to Customer Demand: The permanent addition of Lemonade and the return of the Snack Wrap directly address long-standing customer requests.

• Offering a Variety of Treats: The combination of a new burger, a returning pie, a seasonal McFlurry, a refreshing drink, and a beloved wrap provides a diverse range of options for different cravings.

Key Takeaway: McDonald's Summer Menu Offers a Mix of Returning Classics and Exciting New Treats to Satisfy Customer Cravings McDonald's is generating buzz this summer by bringing back the highly anticipated Blueberry & Crème Pie, launching the Daily Double nationwide, enjoying the success of the Hershey's S'mores McFlurry, permanently adding Lemonade, and preparing for the return of the Snack Wrap, showcasing a strategic approach to cater to a wide array of customer preferences.

Main Trend: Satisfying Seasonal Cravings and Bringing Back Fan Favorites in Fast Food McDonald's summer menu strategy highlights a key trend in the fast food industry: the strategic introduction of seasonal items and the much-anticipated return of popular, limited-time favorites to drive customer excitement and sales.

Description of the Trend: The Cycle of Sweet Returns and Seasonal Delights in Fast Food This trend describes how fast-food chains leverage nostalgia and the anticipation of seasonal flavors by bringing back popular, limited-time menu items that customers fondly remember. These returning favorites, often coinciding with specific seasons or holidays, create a sense of excitement and urgency, encouraging customers to visit and indulge in treats they have been waiting for. This strategy complements the introduction of entirely new items and helps to maintain customer interest and loyalty throughout the year.

What is Consumer Motivation: Seeking Comfort, Nostalgia, and Seasonal Indulgence

• Nostalgia for Beloved Items: The return of fan-favorite items triggers positive memories and a desire to relive past enjoyable experiences with those products.

• Anticipation and Excitement for Limited-Time Offers: Knowing that a product is only available for a short period can create a sense of urgency and encourage immediate purchase.

• Seasonal Cravings and Flavor Preferences: Consumers often associate certain flavors and types of food with specific seasons, making seasonal menu items particularly appealing.

• Desire for Familiar Comfort in a Fast-Paced World: Returning to a trusted and enjoyed menu item can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity in a constantly changing environment.

What is Driving Trend: Brand Loyalty, Seasonal Marketing, and Social Media Buzz

• Strengthening Brand Connection: Bringing back popular items can reinforce positive associations with the brand and reward loyal customers.

• Leveraging Seasonal Marketing Opportunities: Limited-time offerings tied to specific seasons or holidays provide built-in marketing hooks and promotional opportunities.

• Generating Social Media Engagement: The announcement and availability of returning favorites often create significant buzz and discussion on social media platforms.

• Responding to Customer Feedback and Demand: Fast-food chains often listen to customer requests for the return of specific items, showing responsiveness to their audience.

What is Motivation Beyond the Trend: The Fundamental Human Desire for Pleasure and Enjoyment

• Seeking Indulgent Treats: Many fast-food purchases, especially desserts and seasonal items, are driven by a desire for a tasty and enjoyable treat.

• The Reward of Familiar Flavors: Returning to a known and loved flavor profile can provide a sense of satisfaction and comfort.

Description of Consumers Article is Referring: McDonald's Enthusiasts, Nostalgia Seekers, and Seasonal Treat Lovers

Summary Snapshot: Key Characteristics of the Customers Excited About These Menu Items

• Loyal McDonald's Fans: Regularly visit McDonald's and have their favorite menu items, with excitement for new and returning options.

• Nostalgia-Driven: Specifically thrilled about the return of the Blueberry & Crème Pie and the Snack Wrap due to past positive experiences.

• Seasonal Treat Enthusiasts: Anticipate and enjoy menu items that are only available for a limited time, aligning with seasonal flavors and occasions.

• Value-Conscious Customers: Interested in the Daily Double as an addition to the value menu.

• Flavor Explorers: Open to trying new items like the Hershey's S'mores McFlurry and spicy breakfast options.

Concluding Thoughts on the Audience: Satisfying a Wide Range of Cravings with Familiar and New Delights McDonald's is catering to a broad segment of its customer base with these summer menu additions, appealing to those seeking the comfort of returning favorites, the value of an expanded budget-friendly menu, and the excitement of new and seasonal flavors and treats.

• Who are them: McDonald's customers with diverse preferences, including those who enjoy sweet desserts, value-focused burgers, refreshing drinks, and nostalgic snacks.

• What kind of products they like: Fruit pies, classic burgers, ice cream treats, lemonade, and chicken wraps are all highlighted as popular or anticipated items.

• What is their age?: Spans a wide range, from children and teenagers excited about McFlurries and Snack Wraps to adults with nostalgic memories of the Blueberry & Crème Pie and Daily Double.

• What is their gender?: Likely a fairly even split across genders, as the appeal of these items is broad.

• What is their income?: Includes individuals across various income levels, with options ranging from value-priced burgers to indulgent desserts.

• What is their lifestyle: Encompasses individuals looking for convenient and enjoyable food options, whether for a quick meal, a sweet treat on the go, or a nostalgic throwback.

• What are their shopping preferences in the category article is referring to: Favoring quick service and recognizable branding, with a positive response to the return of popular limited-time items and the introduction of new flavors.

• Are they low, occasional or frequent category shoppers: Ranges from occasional to very frequent McDonald's consumers.

• What are their general shopping preferences-how they shop products, shopping motivations): Driven by convenience, familiarity, value, and the desire for tasty treats and enjoyable fast-food experiences, with a strong influence of nostalgia for returning favorites.

Implications for Brands: The Power of Nostalgia and Seasonal Offerings

• Leverage Returning Favorites: Bringing back popular, limited-time items can generate significant customer enthusiasm and drive sales.

• Capitalize on Seasonal Flavors: Offering menu items that align with seasonal tastes and occasions can attract consumers looking for specific treats.

• Listen to Customer Feedback: Responding to customer requests, as seen with the Snack Wrap's return, can build brand loyalty.

Implication for Society: Fast Food as a Source of Familiar Comfort and Anticipation

• McDonald's as a Cultural Touchstone: The return of beloved menu items can evoke a sense of shared experience and nostalgia across a wide population.

• The Role of Food in Marking Seasons and Holidays: Limited-time offerings often coincide with specific times of the year, contributing to the seasonal food landscape.

Implications for Consumers: More Sweet and Savory Options at McDonald's This Summer

• Enjoyment of Returning Favorites: Customers can once again enjoy the Blueberry & Crème Pie and look forward to the Snack Wrap.

• New Treats to Try: The Daily Double and Hershey's S'mores McFlurry offer new options for different cravings.

• Refreshing Drink Choice: Lemonade is now a permanent part of the menu.

Implication for Future: The Continued Cycle of Limited-Time Offers and Menu Refreshments

• Expect More Seasonal and Nostalgic Returns: Fast-food chains will likely continue to utilize the strategy of bringing back popular items for limited periods.

• Ongoing Menu Innovation: While catering to nostalgia, chains will also keep introducing new and trendy items to attract a wider audience.

Consumer Trend: The Comfort of Retro Cravings The strong positive response to returning menu items like the Blueberry & Crème Pie and the Snack Wrap highlights the powerful consumer trend of craving and seeking out nostalgic food experiences.

Consumer Sub Trend: Seasonal Indulgence and Limited-Availability Excitement The anticipation surrounding limited-time offerings like the Blueberry & Crème Pie and seasonal items like the Hershey's S'mores McFlurry drives consumer interest and encourages immediate purchase.

Big Social Trend: Fast Food as a Shared Cultural Experience and Conversation Point McDonald's menu updates and the return of beloved items often become topics of discussion and excitement across social media, reflecting the brand's significant place in popular culture.

Worldwide Social Trend: Global Brand Consistency with Local Twists While McDonald's offers many core items globally, the introduction of regional favorites or items inspired by international menus in specific markets showcases the brand's ability to adapt to local tastes.

Social Drive: The Desire for Familiarity, Comfort, and Momentary Indulgence Consumers often seek out familiar and comforting foods, especially for nostalgic reasons or as a simple pleasure, with limited-time offerings adding an element of excitement and immediacy.

Learnings for Brands to Use in 2025: Key Learnings for Brands from McDonald's Menu Strategy

• Know Your Iconic Products: Recognize the items that hold a special place in your customers' hearts and consider strategic returns or tributes to them.

• Tap into Seasonal Opportunities: Align product launches and limited-time offerings with relevant seasons and holidays.

• Listen to Your Audience: Pay attention to customer feedback and requests, as demonstrated by the return of the Snack Wrap.

Strategic Recommendations for Brands to Follow in 2025: Sweetening the Deal and Satisfying Nostalgia

• Identify and Revive Beloved Products Periodically: Consider bringing back popular past items for limited runs to generate excitement and cater to nostalgic cravings.

• Develop Seasonal Offerings That Align with Consumer Expectations: Create limited-time products that resonate with the flavors and themes of different seasons and holidays.

• Actively Solicit and Respond to Customer Feedback on Product Preferences: Engage with your audience to understand which discontinued or past items they would like to see return.

Final sentence (key concept) describing main trend from article (which is a summary of all trends specified), and what brands & companies should do in 2025 to benefit from trend and how to do it. McDonald's summer menu strategy, marked by the return of the Blueberry & Crème Pie and the anticipation for the Snack Wrap, alongside new seasonal treats and value options, exemplifies the enduring consumer trend of seeking both nostalgic comfort and exciting novelty in familiar brands, urging businesses in 2025 to strategically leverage their iconic products and tap into seasonal cravings to foster customer enthusiasm and drive sales.

Final Note:

• Core Trend: Returning Fan Favorites: The strategic reintroduction of popular, limited-time menu items to excite customers.

• Core Strategy: Balance Nostalgia with Innovation: Offering both familiar comforts and new, appealing options.

• Core Industry Trend: Seasonal and Limited-Time Offerings: A key tactic in the fast-food industry to generate buzz and cater to specific cravings.

• Core Consumer Motivation: Seeking Comfort, Nostalgia, and Seasonal Indulgence: Driven by positive memories and the anticipation of beloved, temporarily available treats.

Final Conclusion: McDonald's Summer Treats: A Recipe for Customer Satisfaction McDonald's latest menu updates, particularly the return of the Blueberry & Crème Pie and the upcoming comeback of the Snack Wrap, demonstrate the powerful influence of nostalgia and seasonal preferences in the fast food market. By blending these beloved items with new offerings and value options, McDonald's is strategically catering to a wide range of consumer desires, reinforcing its position as a brand that listens to its customers and understands the enduring appeal of both familiarity and novelty in the fast-food experience.

Core Trend Detailed: A Taste of the Past: The Magic of Retro Menu Items The Core Trend of Returning Fan Favorites in the fast-food industry highlights the strategic practice of reintroducing menu items that have been popular in the past for a limited time. This approach capitalizes on the powerful emotions of nostalgia and creates a sense of excitement and anticipation among consumers who have fond memories of these products. It's a way for brands to reconnect with their loyal customer base, generate buzz, and offer a comforting and familiar experience that cuts through the constant influx of new and trendy food options.

Key Characteristics of the Core Trend: Defining the Comeback Craze

• Nostalgia-Driven Appeal: The primary driver of this trend is the emotional connection consumers have with past menu items, often associated with positive memories or specific periods in their lives.

• Limited-Time Availability: These items are typically offered for a short duration, creating a sense of urgency and encouraging immediate purchase to avoid missing out.

• Strong Customer Recall and Demand: The success of returning favorites relies on consumers' existing knowledge and positive experiences with the product, often fueled by years of requests for its comeback.

• Social Media Amplification: The return of a beloved menu item often generates significant buzz and discussion on social media platforms, acting as free marketing for the brand.

• Re-engagement of Loyal Customers: Bringing back a fan favorite can reignite enthusiasm among long-term customers who may have drifted away or simply missed the product.

Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend: Signals Pointing to the Power of Nostalgia

• Consistent Customer Requests and Petitions: Brands often receive ongoing feedback and even online campaigns from consumers asking for the return of specific menu items.

• Success of Past Limited-Time Offerings: The positive sales and customer response to previous instances of bringing back popular items demonstrate the effectiveness of this strategy.

• Broader Cultural Trend of Nostalgia:** A general societal trend of looking back fondly at the past, including fashion, music, and, of course, food.

• The Desire for Comfort and Familiarity in Uncertain Times: Nostalgia can provide a sense of comfort and stability, especially during periods of change or uncertainty.

How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior: The Impact of Returning Favorites on Fast-Food Visits

• Drives Increased Foot Traffic and Sales: The anticipation and excitement surrounding a returning favorite often lead to a surge in customer visits and purchases.

• Encourages Impulse Buys: The limited availability can prompt consumers to make unplanned visits or add the returning item to their regular order.

• Generates Brand Engagement and Loyalty: Successfully bringing back a beloved item can strengthen the emotional connection between consumers and the brand.

• Creates Social Sharing and Online Discussion: Customers often share their excitement and experiences with returning favorites on social media, amplifying the brand's reach.

Implications Across the Ecosystem: The Nostalgia-Driven Ecosystem

• For Brands and CPGs: Opportunity to revive popular past products for limited runs, potentially boosting sales and brand sentiment without the long-term commitment of a permanent menu item.

• For Retailers (Fast Food Chains): A powerful tool to drive short-term sales spikes and re-engage their customer base, offering a low-risk way to introduce "new" products with a proven track record.

• For Consumers: A chance to enjoy long-missed and cherished menu items, providing a sense of comfort and satisfaction, even if only for a limited time.

Strategic Forecast: Looking Ahead: The Future of Retro Menu Returns

• More Frequent and Strategically Timed Returns: Expect brands to become even more adept at identifying and reintroducing fan favorites at optimal times to maximize impact.

• Integration of Social Media in Announcing and Gauging Demand: Brands will likely continue to use social media to tease and announce returning items, as well as to monitor customer requests for future comebacks.

• Potential for "Throwback" Menus or Sections: Some fast-food chains might consider creating dedicated sections on their menus that occasionally feature rotating retro items.

• Leveraging Limited-Time Offerings for Innovation Insights: The success and feedback from returning favorites could inform the development of new permanent menu items.

Areas of innovation (implied by article):

• Data-Driven Identification of Returning Favorites: Utilizing sales data and social media sentiment analysis to pinpoint which past items have the highest potential for a successful comeback.

• Creating Anniversary or Milestone-Themed Menu Revivals: Tying the return of a fan favorite to a specific anniversary of the brand or the original product launch.

• Interactive "Bring Back" Campaigns: Engaging consumers directly by allowing them to vote on which past menu items they would like to see return.

• Partnerships or Collaborations for Nostalgic Menu Items: Teaming up with other brands or influencers to create limited-edition revivals of beloved products.

• "Secret Menu" Items That Rotate Back Based on Demand: Officially recognizing and occasionally bringing back popular off-menu creations or discontinued items based on ongoing customer enthusiasm.

Final Thought (summary): Sweet Reminiscing: The Enduring Appeal of Food Nostalgia The trend of returning fan favorites in the fast-food industry highlights the enduring power of nostalgia in shaping consumer behavior. By strategically reintroducing beloved items from the past, brands can tap into powerful emotional connections with their customers, driving excitement, engagement, and ultimately, sales. This practice serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best way to innovate and connect with consumers is to look back at what has brought them joy and satisfaction before.

Source: https://www.eatthis.com/mcdonalds-confirms-return-of-fan-favorite-dessert/