Recently, fast food prices have increased, leaving many customers questioning the reasons behind the steep increase. The journalist highlights the impact of inflation on fast food prices, which were once considered a cheap dining option. The rise in costs extends from ingredients like beef to logistical challenges such as shipping. Fast food giants, despite facing supply chain issues, see price hikes as a means to maintain profitability. For instance, the cost of a Big Mac has far exceeded its inflation-adjusted price since 1978. This escalation in prices raises concerns about consumer loyalty and the effectiveness of promotional strategies to mitigate the impact on sales.
Vocabulary:
• To crave: To strongly want or desire something.
• Sticker shock: Feeling surprised or shocked by a high price.
• Hike: A sudden increase in something, like prices.
• There is no denying: It's obvious or clear.
• Batch: A group of things made or produced together at the same time.
• Mickey D's: nickname for McDonald's.
• Piping hot: Very hot, fresh from cooking.
• To wage war: To engage in a conflict.
• Toll: The price or cost of something, often referring to negative consequences.
• Shipment: Goods being transported or delivered.
• To bid: To offer a certain amount of money in a negotiation.
• To grow up: To become an adult or mature.
• Fast food joint: a fast food restaurant.
• Membership: Being part of a group or organization by paying a fee or fulfilling certain requirements.
• Entice in: To attract someone to do something by offering something desirable or tempting.
Source: FOX 5 New York YouTube channel.