McDonald's is preparing to launch a new value-focused menu initiative aimed at attracting price-conscious customers after years of post-pandemic price increases strained household budgets.

The company plans to introduce a “McValue 2.0” menu beginning in April. The strategy includes $3 menu items and $4 meal options designed to bring lower-income consumers back to the restaurant.

In a memo to franchisees, McDonald’s corporate leadership said the company remains focused on adapting to changing consumer demands. “We have achieved incredible progress together and remain committed to meeting ever-changing customer needs,” the company said in the message.

The new offering is expected to replace the chain’s previous buy-one-get-one promotional deals. Under the revised menu structure, customers will be able to purchase items such as a four-piece Chicken McNuggets or a Sausage Biscuit for about $3 or less, along with select breakfast meals priced around $4.

Internal documents reportedly show broad agreement between corporate leadership and franchise operators on the need to address affordability concerns. Restaurants are expected to begin training staff on the new promotions in the coming weeks ahead of the launch.

Chief Executive Officer Chris Kempczinski said the company intends to maintain its competitive advantage in value offerings. “We absolutely are going to make sure that we are protecting our leadership position in value,” Kempczinski said during a February investor call.

Economic pressures continue to shape consumer behavior in the restaurant industry. A recent survey conducted by Popmenu found that 68 percent of U.S. consumers plan to reduce spending on dining out as inflation continues to affect household finances.

Analysis published by McKinsey & Company earlier this year suggested restaurants specializing in burgers and American-style food could be among the most affected if consumer spending declines.

Kempczinski told analysts in February that affordability remains a core part of the company’s identity. “McDonald’s is not going to get beaten on value and affordability,” he said, adding that the company will continue adjusting its strategy to respond to competitive pressures.

The company has already experimented with several value-focused promotions in recent years, including a $5 meal deal, seasonal offers, and the return of its popular McDonald's Monopoly sweepstakes.

Those efforts helped boost performance in late 2025. McDonald’s reported that U.S. sales rose 6.8 percent during the fourth quarter, exceeding analyst expectations of about 4.9 percent, as lower-priced deals and promotions drove more customers back into its restaurants.