Jimmy John's, the popular sandwich chain with over 2,700 locations across the United States, announced this week that it was throwing its hat into the increasingly crowded value meal wars with a new limited time meal deal.
The $10 Total Package Meal, as the offering is being called, comes with an eight-inch original sandwich, chips, dessert, and choice of a drink. Though pricier than some competing fast food chains—such as McDonald's and its limited-time $5 value meal—the company told USA Today on Monday that it was "putting the current options on the market to the test, because let’s face it, the value meals out there are not nearly enough food for someone looking for a hearty meal."
In comparison, McDonald's value meal for half the price comes with choice of a McChicken, McDouble, or four-piece Chicken McNuggets, along with a small fries and small soft drink.
boss: “who do you think is the total package?”
— Jimmy John’s (@jimmyjohns) August 5, 2024
me: “is it not obvious? it’s me” pic.twitter.com/bn91aA5yr6
The $10 Total Package Meal is meant to "deliver great dollar value without compromising on quality ingredients or quantity of food," said Jeff Cobb, vice president of Jimmy John’s brand experience, in a statement, via Fox Business. "We know there are a lot of value offerings on the market, but with the introduction of the $10 Total Package meal, our guests don’t have to choose between price and quality."
In addition to McDonald's, other chains that have recently come forward with value meal offerings include Burger King, which introduced its own $5 "Your Way Meal" back in May that comes with choice of a sandwich, four-piece nuggets, fries, and a drink. Taco Bell likewise launched a $7 Luxe Cravings Box back in June; whereas Wendy's now offers a $3 breakfast and Sonic recently introduced a new $1.99 menu.
It's unclear how long these value offerings will last, but in the meantime they are surely providing some at least temporary relief for inflation-weary customers.