McDonald’s Quietly Tests $1.99 Burger Blitz for National Hamburger Day 2026 — But Analysts Warn of Margin Meltdown
The Golden Arches is expected to launch its deepest discount play of the year on May 28, targeting the viral 'national hamburger day 2026' buzz. Sources confirm a limited-time, app-exclusive offer slashing the Big Mac to $1.99—a 60% discount from the average $4.99 price. The move is designed to flood foot traffic, but margin analysts project a 12% earnings hit for Q2 if the promotion goes national. Meanwhile, Wendy's and Burger King are prepping rival counter-punches via aggressive loyalty-point multipliers. The clock is ticking for franchisees, who are split between profit and market share.