McDonald French Fries: In a troubling turn for the fast-food industry, McDonald’s and its french fries supplier, Lamb Weston, are facing significant challenges amid declining customer demand. As consumers tighten their belts due to rising inflation, the appetite for fast-food fries is waning, prompting Lamb Weston to close a production plant in Washington State and lay off nearly 400 employees—approximately 4% of its workforce.

McDonald’s New Meal Deals Struggling

To combat falling sales, McDonald’s introduced a $5 Meal Deal that includes a McDouble or McChicken, a four-piece chicken nugget, small fries, and a soft drink. Despite this effort, customer traffic has decreased. In the last quarter, McDonald’s same-store sales in the U.S. fell by 0.7% compared to the same period a year earlier, leading many to shift their dining habits back to home cooking.

Shifting Consumer Preferences Impacting French Fry Demand

Lamb Weston, which supplies around 80% of the french fries consumed in the U.S., has seen its shares drop nearly 35% this year. CEO Thomas Werner noted that the introduction of value meal deals is not translating to increased demand for fries, as many customers are opting for smaller portions. “Many of these promotional meal deals have consumers trading down from a medium fry to a small fry,” Werner stated during an earnings call.

The Fast-Food Landscape is Changing

As the fast-food landscape evolves, with consumers increasingly favoring home-cooked meals over dining out, Lamb Weston is adjusting its operations. The company’s recent decision to shut down its Connell, Washington plant resulted in a loss of 375 jobs and a temporary cut in production lines, as it grapples with oversupply amid sluggish demand.

Analysts indicate that the trend of rising restaurant prices compared to grocery store prices is driving customers away from fast-food chains. A recent report highlighted that customer traffic at fast-food outlets fell by 2% last quarter and 3% the previous quarter compared to the same time last year.

With McDonald’s being Lamb Weston’s largest customer—accounting for 13% of its sales—the current downturn poses significant risks for both entities. As the fast-food giant navigates these turbulent waters, the future of McDonald’s french fries hangs in the balance, showcasing the broader challenges faced by the fast-food industry amid economic pressures.