McDonald's Discount Menu Rollout Lags as U.S. Same-Store Sales Stall

McDonald's U.S. same-store sales grew just 0.8% in Q2 2026 as traffic fell. CEO Kempczinski blamed inconsistent franchisee execution: only 60–65% of U.S. restaurants had launched the 'under $3 menu' by quarter's end. Average checks rose, but fewer customers visited. Management said domestic sales won't meet expectations until 2027, contingent on operational fixes.