On Our Minds

Will McDonald’s ever learn? This week marks the second time in recent history that the fast-food giant has paved their path to a social media crisis. Last year, McDonald’s looked to social media micro-blogging platform Twitter to promote the massive re-launch of their infamous McRib sandwich.

For those who aren’t familiar with the concept, Promoted Tweets (with an estimated cost of over $100,000 per day) are words bought in advance and given top-line placement in the trending stream beside organically trending topics. Promoted Tweets are comparable to Google AdWords where companies buy keywords and search terms within Google.

McDonald’s McRib promoted tweet, #McRib, was met with harsh words in the Twitterverse. Examples included; “The #McRib is back, and so are the McRuns” and “Well, folks, it’s that time of year again. #McRib is back. Pfizer stock on the rise. #lipitor.”

In attempt to promote the menu’s new healthy options and farmer-grown ingredients, McDonald’s took to Twitter again this week with the hashtag #McDStories.  They were met with even harsher words. @SkipSullivan, now enjoying his 15 seconds of fame for his hilarious remarks on this topic, went as far to say: "One time I walked into McDonalds and I could smell Type 2 diabetes floating in the air and I threw up. #McDStories." 

What do you think? It is time for McDonald’s to give up on Promoted Tweets or can they make some changes moving forward? Tweet us @zenergycom with your thoughts!