Arch Deluxe

A discontinued hamburger sold by McDonald's

Header image for Arch Deluxe

The Arch Deluxe was a hamburger sold by McDonald's in the mid-1990s. It was marketed as a "burger with grown-up taste" and was part of a larger effort by McDonald's to appeal to a more adult demographic. Despite a significant marketing campaign, the Arch Deluxe was ultimately discontinued due to poor sales.

Development

The Arch Deluxe was developed as part of McDonald's strategy to expand its menu and attract a more sophisticated audience. The company invested heavily in the development and marketing of the burger, reportedly spending over $300 million. The burger was designed by McDonald's executive chef Andrew Selvaggio, who aimed to create a product that would appeal to adult tastes.

Composition

Composition of the Arch Deluxe

The Arch Deluxe featured a quarter-pound beef patty, leaf lettuce, tomato, cheese, onions, ketchup, and a special "Arch Sauce". The sauce was a blend of mustard and mayonnaise, intended to provide a tangy flavor profile. The burger was served on a potato flour sesame seed bun, which was chosen for its unique texture and taste.

Marketing Campaign

The marketing campaign for the Arch Deluxe was one of the most expensive in McDonald's history. The campaign included television commercials, print ads, and promotional events. The advertisements often featured children expressing disdain for the burger, emphasizing that it was designed for adult palates. Despite the extensive marketing efforts, the campaign failed to generate the expected interest and sales.

Reception and Discontinuation

The Arch Deluxe received mixed reviews from consumers and critics. While some appreciated the attempt to offer a more sophisticated burger, others found the taste and price unappealing. The high cost of the marketing campaign, combined with the lackluster sales, led to the discontinuation of the Arch Deluxe in the late 1990s.

Legacy

The Arch Deluxe is often cited as a cautionary tale in the fast-food industry, illustrating the challenges of introducing new products and the risks associated with large-scale marketing campaigns. Despite its failure, the Arch Deluxe remains a notable part of McDonald's history and is occasionally referenced in discussions about fast-food marketing strategies.

Related pages

• McDonald's
• Fast food
• Marketing campaigns