Does McDonalds even celebrate the holidays? They did come out with a “holiday pie” but it doesn’t seem very festive. Back in 2000 they seemed to love Santa…

Retail sales are expected to be up this holiday season, with bars and restaurants leading the way, so you’d think McDonalds would be leaning into the holiday cheer. But maybe when you are so dominant in the IEO space you don't need to flaunt it?

What’s IEO? They kept saying it at the Investor Day presentation and I had to look it up. It’s the McDonald’s segment of the restaurant industry and it stands for “Informal Eating Out.” This includes other Quick Service Restaurants (QSR), casual dining full-service restaurants, street stalls, specialist coffee shops, and juice or smoothing bars. Basically any place that makes your neighborhood nice is the enemy of McDonalds.

Rather than discuss the doom and gloom of McDonalds ongoing battle for third spaces we have our Holiday Special for you. It’s been about four months since we wrapped season one and we have a lot to cover:

* Zach’s annual McTrot!

* McDonalds position in the Israel/Palestine conflict

* CosMc’s

* The $MCD stock price

* Where is Santa?

* Expanding McDonald’s IP

* HBR Merch!

* And what’s could be next for HBR

🍔 Hamburger Business Review Merchandise

There is no way you’re getting any of these before Christmas, but that’s the point. These are not christmas gifts. This is something you buy for yourself. Because after listening to Season One you’re also a Hamburger Expert!

There is nothing like a fleece vest and a matching cap to make you feel like some combo of tech industry titan and delivery person. It’s great.

The HBR Hat in Mustard

An embroidered hat with with HBR logo. Discreet, because maybe people will think this is associated with a fancy college, but also a signal to all business burger enthusiasts with the burger icon.

The HBR Mug in Mustard

Add a splash of burger business to your morning coffee or tea ritual! These ceramic mugs not only have a beautiful burger design and bold HAMBURGER BUSINESS REVIEW on them, but also a bright yellow rim, handle, and inside, so the mug helps keep your focus on the business of burgers.

The HBR Fleece Vest

Make the right choice with this Columbia fleece vest! It’s a modern yet classic piece that’s perfect for layering during cold weather and you’re ready for your business conference in Switzerland, Idaho, or the Bay Area!

Thanks again to all our listeners and supporters. We’re excited about the future of the burger business and can’t wait to get back to it.

-K. Mike Merrill + Zach Rose

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