McDonald’s Revives Monopoly After a Decade with Exciting $1 Million Cash Prize
McDonald’s Revives Popular Monopoly Game with Exciting Prizes
The Return of McDonald’s Monopoly: A Digital Twist
McDonald’s is reintroducing its iconic Monopoly game, merging nostalgia with modern technology to captivate customers once again. Starting October 6, patrons can participate in this much-anticipated promotion by utilizing McDonald’s mobile app, marking the first return of the game in nearly a decade.
Innovative Game Mechanics Boost Loyalty
McDonald’s is leveraging its popular mobile app to enhance the game experience and encourage engagement in its loyalty program. Participants can win a variety of enticing prizes, including:
- 1 million American Airlines AAdvantage Miles
- A trip for four to Universal Orlando Resort
- A brand new 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- A $1 million grand prize
To get started, customers must download the McDonald’s app, opt into the rewards system, and register for the game. Additionally, those who pre-register between September 29 and October 5 will receive 500 bonus MyMcDonald’s Rewards points.
Understanding the Game: Physical and Digital Components
During the promotion, loyalty members can earn game pieces through various methods, either through physical game pieces on packaging or digital pieces collected in the app with each order. For physical pieces, users can scan them within the app to discover prizes or collect digital property pieces. For digital pieces, the app allows players to “peel” and instantly see their potential winnings.
Historical Context: The ‘McMillions’ Scandal
The Monopoly game at McDonald’s has a complex history, notably marred by the ‘McMillions’ scam. During the 1990s, Jerome Jacobson, former head of security at Simon Marketing, orchestrated a scheme to embezzle major prizes, resulting in $24 million in stolen winnings. Over 50 individuals were convicted, and Jacobson served a prison sentence of 37 months with $12.5 million in restitution payments.
Reinvigorating Customer Engagement Amid Economic Challenges
The game’s revival comes as McDonald’s seeks to enhance its value proposition, especially in the wake of economic pressures such as increased labor costs due to wage hikes in places like California. The reintroduction of Extra Value Meals underscores this strategic effort to draw budget-conscious customers back through attractive pricing.
Despite challenges faced industrywide, including rising menu prices and shrinking profit margins, McDonald’s aims to rejuvenate customer traffic by blending new technological initiatives with nostalgic charm. The fast-food giant continues to innovate in pursuit of maintaining its competitive edge within the bustling market landscape.
