Two simple words:, ‘Golden Arches’. They effortlessly summon the unmistakable image of McDonald’s. Beyond shapes and colours, they encapsulate the profound influence of McDonald’s. However, this fast-food giant hasn’t always enjoyed the success it boasts today. In 2003, the company encountered a big setback, reporting a loss exceeding $300 million in the fourth quarter of 2022. How did McDonald’s manage to reclaim its position in the hearts of consumers?
How Brand Journalism Redefines Marketing
As its customer base evolved over the years, McDonald’s remained unaltered. It eventually recognised its distinction from other industry giants like Apple, Coca-Cola and Nike. While these multifaceted brands carried varied meanings for individuals at different junctures, McDonald’s distinguished itself not as a large brand, but as a mass brand.
Because of this, McDonald’s initiated a transformative strategy known as ‘Brand Journalism’. Rather than attempting to distil its brand into a singular position, the company began crafting tailored images for distinct demographic groups and product categories. Today, McDonald’s resonates uniquely with a child, budget-conscious students, or health-conscious adults, all remaining true to its core brand promise.
Source: McDonald’s Singapore
In this era, the iconic McDonald’s jingle “I’m lovin’ it” marked a shift in power dynamics, transitioning from a collective “we” to a more individualistic “I.”. McDonald’s also introduced a sensory dimension, encapsulated by the three elements synonymous with the brand: the unforgettable “ba da ba ba ba,” the iconic golden arch, and the infectious “I’m lovin’ it” vibe. This fusion of sound, visuals, and words has persevered for two decades.
Source: Siders Online
The key lesson for brands here is to strive for simplicity while maintaining flexibility. McDonald’s adeptly retained its core identity while remaining attuned to shifting trends, showing the importance of simplicity and adaptability in ensuring sustainable growth. As a brand expands and the media consumption landscape changes, allow the brand to evolve within a structured framework.
The Power of “Fan Truths”
In 2020, McDonald’s geared up to redefine the game once more. What would it be like if they viewed the brand from the perspective of its fans? There came the “Fan Truth” strategy, a deliberate effort to grasp what resonates with McDonald’s fans and communicate on a fan-to-fan level.
In essence, everyone has a McDonald’s order, irrespective of whether they’re a worldwide icon or an everyday neighbour. McDonald’s harnessed these shared, universal experiences to forge genuine connections and authenticity.
Everyone has a McDonald’s order.
Source: WARC
Global K-pop Sensations BTS and their McDonald’s Famous Order
Source: Today
From here, brands gain a key insight. Authenticity functions as the bridge across divides. Comprehending what truly resonates with your audience and conversing in their language holds the power to establish genuine connections, transcending demographics and backgrounds.
Meeting Customers’ Every Step of the Way
Rather than solely focusing on outpacing competitors, the emphasis lies in consistently exceeding customer expectations—a principle embodied by McDonald’s. The company has adeptly anticipated and embraced emerging trends.
For example, tTo cater to the health-conscious demographic, McDonald’s introduced the ‘Eat Light Under 500 Calories’ menu. Recognising the growing importance of convenience in the modern consumer landscape, McDonald’s integrated technology, incorporating features such as mobile ordering, self-service kiosks, and delivery services.
Going beyond consumer expectations, McDonald’s took a significant stride towards sustainability in 2021 by launching net-zero restaurants, powered by wind turbines and solar panels. This initiative goes beyond the realm of green energy; it’s about preserving the distinctive McDonald’s ambiance while seamlessly integrating sustainable practices. The result? Similar to the instant recognition of the red and yellow arches, McDonald’s green initiatives are poised to become equally distinctive.
Another takeaway for brands: Brands should invest time in comprehending consumer preferences, aiming not only to meet but to set the pace for consumer expectations.
Leading Transparently
McDonald’s has extended beyond Happy Meals, burgers, chicken nuggets and fries. Today, the company is committed to dispelling negative brand perceptions through transparency. Instead of shying away from uncomfortable details, a practice held by most brands, McDonald’s has chosen to embrace a new public image centred on authenticity.
A prime illustration of this commitment is McDonald’s acknowledgment of the unsightly role its packaging plays in contributing to litter. In another instance, McDonald’s confronts prevalent misconceptions about the origins of its food by providing transparent explanations of where their ingredients are sourced from. This approach reflects a conscious effort to engage with consumers openly and honestly, reshaping public perception and fostering trust in the brand’s authenticity.
Source: The Drum and CRSB Certified
In the quest for perfection, authenticity frequently takes precedence. A brand’s ability to openly acknowledge its imperfections and be dedicated to genuine change can set it apart, distinguishing it from others and fostering trust among consumers.
The Taste of Triumph
More than just its colour palette, catchy jingles and delicious food, McDonald’s journey – from navigating challenges and re-establishing its standing, showcases the importance of authentic narratives and tangible actions in branding. Flexibility, authenticity, and meaningful connections emerge as key linchpins to enduring success.
References:
https://www.mcdonalds.com.sg/eat
https://www.mcdonalds.com.sg/mcdonalds-ups-the-ante-with-a-new-holistic-family-experience
https://sidersonline.com/products/mcd-ba-da-bag
https://www.today.com/food/mcdonald-s-bts-meal-finally-here-so-you-can-eat-t219680
https://www.warc.com/newsandopinion/opinion/mcdonalds-famous-orders-forget-the-haters-and-listen-to-the-fans/en-gb/5822
https://www.thedrum.com/news/2022/03/28/ad-the-day-mcdonald-s-norway-acknowledges-its-littering-problem-bold-print-campaign
https://www.crsbcertified.ca/blog/mcdonalds-canada-now-with-sustainable-sourcing-in-its-quarter-pounders/
