McDonald's Execs Plan for More GLP-1 Customers Like Ozempic Users
In a recent earnings call, McDonald's executives openly addressed the rising tide of customers using GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy. CEO Chris Kempczinski highlighted how this growing group is prompting menu experiments focused on protein-rich products. As GLP-1 adoption surges—with an EY consumer products expert noting last year that 10% of the US population is on these drugs—fast food chains like McDonald's are adapting to changed eating behaviors, including smaller portions and less snacking.
McDonald's Earnings Call: Addressing GLP-1 Customer Needs
During Wednesday's earnings call, McDonald's reported a 5.7% increase in global comparable sales, reaching about $7 billion, though its stock price remained relatively flat post-announcement. Amid these results, the conversation turned to the impact of GLP-1 drugs on consumer behavior. CEO Chris Kempczinski stated he expects GLP-1 adoption to continue growing, adding, "as adoption grows, we know that consumers' behavior changes."
These customers, influenced by the appetite-suppressing effects of GLP-1s like Ozempic and Wegovy, show interest in protein-rich products. Kempczinski noted that McDonald's already offers a menu of high-protein dishes. Vice President Jill McDonald provided specific examples, including McDonald's Snack Wraps, Sausage Biscuit sandwich, and chicken McCrispy Strips.
"But we're also seeing changes around maybe less snacking, changes in some of the beverages that they drink, less sugary drinks," Kempczinski said. "And so all of those things are factoring into some of what we're out there experimenting with and testing with."
Jill McDonald added that the team has ideas in the works for how to better serve customers on GLP-1 drugs in the long term, though she did not share additional details. This strategic focus underscores McDonald's proactive approach to a demographic reshaping dining habits.
What Are GLP-1 Medications and How Do They Work?
GLP-1 receptor agonists, commonly known as GLP-1 drugs, mimic the glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone to regulate blood sugar, slow gastric emptying, and suppress appetite. Medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy are semaglutide-based injections primarily approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. By signaling fullness to the brain, they lead users to opt for smaller portion sizes and nutrient-dense foods, directly impacting fast food consumption patterns.
This mechanism explains the behavioral shifts McDonald's execs observed: reduced snacking, preference for proteins over carbs, and avoidance of sugary beverages. For patients on these therapies, maintaining balanced nutrition becomes key, especially when eating out. Tools like Shotlee can help track daily protein intake and medication schedules to align with these changes.
GLP-1 Adoption Trends in the US
The scale of this shift is massive. An EY consumer products expert told Business Insider last year that 10% of the entire US population was on some form of GLP-1 drugs. This surge is not only transforming personal health outcomes but also compelling the food and beverage sector to innovate.
How GLP-1 Users Are Changing Fast Food Habits
Patients on Ozempic or Wegovy often experience reduced hunger, leading to smaller meals and a focus on satiating, high-protein options. At quick-service restaurants, this translates to demand for items like grilled chicken, wraps, and low-sugar drinks over fries, burgers, and sodas. McDonald's high-protein offerings, such as the chicken McCrispy Strips and Sausage Biscuit, align well with these preferences.
