McDonald's Japan is gearing up to reignite the excitement around its popular Shaka Shaka Potato campaign, announcing the limited-time introduction of two fresh flavors: Ume Nori Salt and Garlic Black Pepper Mayo. Starting February 26, 2025, customers across Japan can enjoy these new seasonings on their beloved McDonald's French fries until early April.
The Ume Nori Salt flavor features plum powder made from 90% Kishu Nanko plums, delivering a delightful mix of sweet and sour notes along with the fragrance of roasted seaweed, encapsulating the essence of spring. Meanwhile, the Garlic Black Pepper Mayo flavor tantalizes the taste buds with its savory garlic and black pepper kick, wrapped up with the indulgent creaminess of mayonnaise, making for an irresistible combination.
To add another layer of enjoyment, McDonald's is launching the Shaka Shaka Potenage—a special combo set available only during night hours after 5 PM. This new offering allows customers to mix and match French fries with chicken nuggets, seasoned with either of the two new flavors, creating a fun and tasty experience for late-night diners.
Launching alongside the new flavors is the much-anticipated television advertisement featuring popular actor Masato Sakai, who returns to promote the Shaka Shaka Potato. The commercial, set to air from February 25, showcases Sakai shaking the seasoned fries with unbounded enthusiasm, embodying the campaign's spirit of enjoyment.
This year, McDonald's is also partnering with the virtual pop star Hatsune Miku for the first time, marking another exciting twist to the Shaka Shaka Potato campaign. To celebrate Cat Day on February 22, the collaboration features animations created by renowned artists, depicting Hatsune Miku with cat ears shaking fries. A special video, tagged #MikuToShakaRo, will be released, followed by additional surprise announcements on Miku Day, March 9.
“It’s exciting to see popular culture intersect with our food offerings,” said McDonald’s Japan CEO, Thomas Cowan. “We always look for ways to keep our menu fresh and engaging, and this collaboration taps right back to what our customers love.”
The Shaka Shaka potatoes have been part of McDonald’s menu strategy, appealing to diners by allowing them to customize the flavor of their fries. This playful approach has attracted attention and helped revitalize customer interest, especially among younger audiences.
Marking their distinguished history, McDonald's French fries are quite renowned. They are made from selected potato varieties, fried to golden perfection, delivering crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors. The introduction of the Shaka Shaka Potato is set to transform this beloved side dish even more.
The new Shaka Shaka seasonings will retail for an additional 40 yen when added to orders, making them accessible and affordable for all customers. The promo details highlight complete sets like the Shaka Shaka Potenage Big and Extra Big, which include large servings of fries and chicken nuggets paired with the exciting new seasonings, ensuring there's plenty to share—or savor alone!
With so many meaningful partnerships and exciting promotions, this year's Shaka Shaka Potato campaign exemplifies McDonald's dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction. From flavors to fan engagement, McDonald's are stepping up its game. The blend of tradition with contemporary pop culture surely captures the essence of fast food fun and festivity!
Fans of McDonald's are eagerly anticipating the launch, sharing their excitement across social media platforms. Comments and mentions highlight the flavors and the nostalgic enjoyment tied to the Shaka Shaka experience. With the added dimension of Hatsune Miku now woven through the campaign, it’s bound to be another hit.
Take note, food lovers of Japan; this limited-time offer promises not only delicious seasonal flavors but also engaging cultural connections. From delicious bites to vibrant collaborations, the Shaka Shaka Potato experience is set to offer ample reasons to visit your nearest McDonald's this spring.