McDonald’s Capitalizes on Nostalgia with New Collector's Meal Featuring Iconic Cups

McDonald's is reviving the nostalgia of collectibles by introducing a new Collector’s Meal featuring six unique cups that will be available at participating restaurants starting August 13. This initiative aims to rekindle the excitement of collecting memorabilia, reminiscent of popular items from the 1990s and early 2000s, such as Beanie Babies, Shrek and Hot Wheels.

The move to incorporate collectibles into the brand identity is part of McDonald’s strategy to create memorable experiences for both longtime fans and new customers. Morgan Flatley, global chief marketing officer and head of new business ventures at McDonald’s, highlighted that these cups are designed to evoke cherished memories and inspire new ones, tapping into the "undeniable thrill" of completing a collection.

This effort follows the success of the Grimace Shake campaign in 2023, which also leveraged nostalgia to engage customers. The new collectible cups feature iconic designs, including the 1998 Cowpoke McNugget Buddy and the 1993 McDonald’s Dragster, celebrating the brand’s history of global collaborations.

In addition to the collectible cups, McDonald’s is offering an augmented reality experience and in-person collector events in New York City and Los Angeles. The Collector’s Meal includes breakfast or lunch options, with the opportunity to receive one of the collectible cups, allowing customers to add to their collection any time of the day. By integrating these keepsakes into its menu, McDonald’s aims to blend nostalgia with a modern twist, reinforcing its brand identity and appealing to a wide range of customers.

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