(Photo : Lauren DeCicca/Getty Images)
Chili's Grill & Bar has seen a surge in customers flocking to their restaurants, eager to try the new "3 for Me" meal deal. This popular value offer includes the Big Smasher burger, a choice of side, and a beverage, all for just $10.99. The deal is being praised by diners as a better value compared to similar offerings at fast-food chains like McDonald's.
Brinker International, Chili's parent company, reported a significant 15% increase in sales since the launch of the "3 for Me" deal.
Chili's '3 for Me' Meal Deal Boosts Sales with Affordable Dining Option
The company credits this success to their efforts to provide affordable dining options amidst rising food prices. Chili's CEO noted that the deal has not only attracted more customers but has also sparked discussions about the cost of dining out, making it a win for the brand, according to CNN.
To promote this new offering, Chili's has strategically positioned its meal deal as a direct competitor to fast food. Ads emphasize the value of the Big Smasher burger compared to popular fast-food burgers like McDonald's Big Mac. This comparison highlights the fact that customers can get a more substantial meal at Chili's for a similar price.
The affordability of Chili's "3 for Me" deal has gained traction on social media, with TikTok creators and other influencers sharing their experiences. One TikTok video by Eason Trbojevic, which has garnered over 2.7 million views, points out that Chili's offers better value than McDonald's. Trbojevic enthusiastically shares how the "3 for Me" deal includes a beverage, a side, and a cheeseburger, making it a more appealing option for budget-conscious diners.
As fast-food prices continue to rise, customers are expressing frustration. According to McDonald's chief financial officer, Ian Borden, prices at fast-food chains have increased by about 10% between 2022 and 2023. This has led to growing dissatisfaction among customers, who are seeking more affordable alternatives.
Read Also: Wisconsin's Carbliss Among Top 10 Fastest-Growing US Private Companies
Affordable Meal Deals
In response, fast-food chains like McDonald's have introduced value meals to keep customers coming back. For instance, McDonald's offers the McChicken $5 Meal and the McDouble $5 Meal, which have proven popular. However, despite these efforts, customers like Trbojevic are noticing that full-service restaurants like Chili's are now offering better deals than fast food.
Other restaurant chains are also joining the trend of offering affordable meal deals. Applebee's, for example, is running a promotion where customers can enjoy two entrees and either an appetizer or two side salads at a great price. Additionally, they've introduced the Whole Lotta Burger for just $9.99, appealing to diners looking for value.
According to MailOnline, even seafood restaurants are getting involved in the action. Red Lobster's "Shrimp Your Way" deal allows customers to choose three shrimp dishes for $25 or two dishes for $21, providing an affordable seafood option for those who want to dine out without breaking the bank.
Customers who might otherwise turn to fast food, Chili's "3 for Me" deal will remain available for the rest of the year, according to their CEO.
Related Article: Perdue Foods Recalls Over 167,000 Pounds of Chicken Nuggets and Tenders Due to Metal Wire Contamination
