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Home > Smart Spending > Archives > 2009 > February > 19
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Fast-food restaurant deals: No sign of slowing down
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The fast-food deals have come fast and furious.
A free “Grand Slam” breakfast offer (normally $5.99) at Denny’s on Feb. 3 draws 2 million customers across the continent.
Metro Atlanta Steak n Shakes drop the price of their steakburger ($2.49 or thereabouts) to 15 cents on the morning of Feb. 13, then bump it to 75 cents through March 29.
McDonald’s gives away a cup of coffee (generally beginning at $1.09) for the rest of the month.
It’s called seizing the moment. As cash-strapped Americans cut back on dining out, the more affordable chains are drumming up attention with special promotions.
Did you do Denny’s, where some outlets reported two-hour waits, or Steak & Shake? Was it worth the effort?
The chain’s strategy: Lure the hungry and caffeine-needy through the door and hope the prices will catch their eye.
Dairy Queen pitches the new Sweet Deals, mixing and matching menu items for $5 or less. Moe’s Southwest Grill repackages its Joey Jr. kid’s meal for adults, which goes for $4.99. Wendy’s lowers the tab on three sandwiches to 99 cents. Quizno’s and Boston Market are among others on the bandwagon.
Even Starbucks, where cost is rarely a factor for customers, rolls out a $3.95 combo snack on March 3, which promises savings of up to $1.20 on items bought individually.
Be forewarned that, with many deals, the cheaper price is accompanied by smaller portions. So you might have to order an extra side to fill up.
Has the economy driven you to the drive-thrus and parking lots of such eateries? What do you think of the deals and the updated meal plans?
Certainly, the offers are providing us with (fast) food for thought.
