We all know happy-type meals are designed to get children to beg, cry, and scream until their parents take them to a fast food restaurant. But children aren't the only target of bribes by fast food outlets. What about bribes for adults?
"2 breakfast sandwiches for $2." "2 burgers for $3." You see the enticement on the marquee or posters in the windows. "Think our prices are low. Watch them get lower," the sirens seem to wail.
The prices are low, though you get what you pay for on several levels. But if price is your thing, a slightly lower price or a chance to get much more food for not much more money will get your attention.
The fast food restaurants know that you aren't recruiting a friend to eat that second Whopper or McMuffin. The rationalization of a Whopper for $1.50 isn't always as strong as 2 Whoppers for $3.
Sometimes, games and prizes are used, such as the Monopoly game at McDonald's. The current TV campaign plays with the idea of odds in a society that is seriously math-challenged. Then again, most get the idea of 1 in 4 of winning a prize, even if that prize is more McDonald's food.
Fast food restaurants' internal research knows whether they are drawing more from their regular customers or whether these bribes entice those who rarely visit their restaurants. My guess would be the former, though the latter will drive some traffic.
What you don't see are mid-level restaurants offering similar bribes. Sure they have occasional specials, but they aren't offering to double your food or make it really easy to get free food. And they don't make a regular habit of offering even slight reductions.
Fast food restaurants feel the need to bribe adults and children to visit their establishments, even with low prices and quick food. Speaks volumes for what they might think of their product, and what we expect from our fast food restaurants.
No reason for us to be tempted unless we really like the food or we don't have enough money. Even without a reason, sometimes we don't need a reason — the temptation is too great.
Comments