McDonald’s says AI does not set menu prices, franchisees decide
MCD•McDonald’s said its pricing tool provides restaurant-specific recommendations but does not set or change prices; franchisees independently decide prices and whether to use the recommendations.
1. Franchisees set prices
McDonald’s rejected claims that AI sets menu prices, calling the assertion false. It said its pricing recommendation tool offers restaurant-specific guidance, while franchisees independently decide prices and whether to use the recommendations.
2. Pricing remains human-led
The company also denied using dynamic pricing or tailoring prices to an individual customer’s willingness to pay. It said pricing decisions are human-led and based on local market conditions across more than 46,000 restaurants.
