McDonald’s has officially launched its new "Big Arch" burger, a substantial addition aimed at satisfying the biggest appetites, on April 1, 2025. This new offering features two ground beef steaks, three slices of cheddar, a soft bun, and a secret sauce, all designed to capture the attention of burger lovers across France.
The Big Arch weighs in at a hefty 395 grams and packs a calorie count of 1,065, making it a filling option for those looking for a hearty meal. As part of McDonald’s strategy to enhance its menu, the burger aims to become a permanent fixture, a move that reflects the brand’s ambition to compete in the growing market for larger sandwiches. According to Stéphanie Poupinneau, who oversees product development for McDonald’s France, "We were looking to create an iconic burger in this range."
Initially, the Big Arch was available exclusively through the McDo mobile app on its launch day, with plans to roll it out to all 1,560 French locations starting April 2, 2025. The burger is priced between 9 and 10 euros when purchased alone and between 12 and 13 euros for a meal, depending on the franchise. This pricing strategy is part of McDonald’s broader effort to attract customers who might otherwise choose competing fast-food chains like Burger King or independent restaurants.
McDonald’s has committed to producing 100,000 buns and 200,000 steaks daily for the Big Arch, emphasizing that the beef and flour used in the bun are 100% French. The addition of the Big Arch to the menu not only aims to satisfy customers' cravings for larger burgers but also highlights the company’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients.
The burger is described as containing a "creamy and smooth" sauce that balances the typical flavors of mustard and ketchup found in other McDonald’s offerings. This secret sauce is a key element that McDonald’s hopes will make the Big Arch as iconic as its predecessor, the Big Mac.
In a competitive landscape where other fast-food giants have already established themselves in the large burger segment, McDonald’s sees the Big Arch as a way to reclaim market share. "The market for large burgers is already dominated by competitors. Our goal is to attract consumers who might go elsewhere," Poupinneau stated.
The Big Arch has already been tested in various markets, including Canada, Germany, and Portugal, but the French launch marks its first permanent addition to any McDonald’s menu. This strategic move follows a trend where the company aims to innovate and refresh its offerings regularly, with plans to introduce new products every six weeks.
McDonald’s has faced declining sales globally in 2024, prompting the need for fresh strategies to invigorate customer interest. France, being one of McDonald’s most profitable markets, will see the introduction of new items aimed at reviving sales and drawing customers back into restaurants.
In addition to the Big Arch, McDonald’s France has plans to launch at least two new vegetarian recipes in early 2025, as part of its initiative to diversify its menu and cater to changing consumer preferences. The company aims to maintain a constant flow of new products to keep the brand relevant and appealing to its customer base.
As McDonald’s continues to expand its presence in France with plans to open 50 new restaurants in 2025, the Big Arch is poised to play a significant role in attracting new customers and retaining loyal fans. The chain's goal is to ensure that every French citizen is within a 20-minute drive of a McDonald’s, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
The introduction of the Big Arch is not just another burger; it represents McDonald’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Whether it becomes a new favorite among fast-food enthusiasts remains to be seen, but the early feedback suggests that it is a promising addition to the menu.
In conclusion, McDonald’s is betting big on the Big Arch, hoping to carve out a niche in the competitive landscape of large burgers while also appealing to a broader audience with its commitment to quality ingredients and innovative offerings.
