In an exclusive reveal, McDonald's has announced its most substantial brand partnership to date, teaming up with the iconic television franchise Friends. This groundbreaking collaboration introduces adult Happy Meal toys, marking a significant shift in the fast-food giant's promotional strategy and offering a nostalgic treat for collectors and fans alike.
A Limited-Time Culinary and Collectible Experience
The collaboration, launched in partnership with Warner Bros, will be available in UK restaurants from Tuesday, February 3, for a limited period. This initiative represents a complete menu takeover, a first for McDonald's, blending culinary offerings with pop culture memorabilia.
Exclusive Friends-Themed Meals and Collectibles
Customers can choose from a specially curated Friends Meal, which includes options such as a Big Mac, nine McNuggets, or a McPlant meal. Each meal comes with one of six unique, show-inspired collectible figurines featuring the beloved characters. These figurines capture iconic moments, such as Ross with his pet monkey Marcel, Rachel serving coffee, Monica in chef mode, Phoebe with her guitar, and Chandler and Joey with their chick and duck duo.
For the first time, McDonald's is offering these adult Happy Meal toys, designed specifically for collectors, enhancing the appeal beyond traditional children's offerings.
Enhanced Menu Items and In-App Features
The collaboration extends beyond toys, with several menu enhancements and exclusive digital content:
- A limited-edition dip called Monica’s Marinara, available with the nine McNuggets Friends Meal. This flavourful Italian tomato sauce, made with tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs, adds a perfect twist to Chicken McNuggets and fries.
- Redesigned Chicken Sharebox and Chicken McNuggets Sharebox featuring Joey and the New York skyline, despite Joey's infamous reluctance to share food.
- McCafé cups adorned with the iconic Central Perk sofa design.
- New menu additions including Pizza Mozzarella Dippers, Donut Crumb Latte, and Toffee Latte.
- Exclusive in-app content on the MyMcDonald’s App, offering competitions and chances to win limited-edition Friends merchandise.
Background and European Launch
This collaboration was first introduced in Spain in October 2024 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Friends, where it was served in Friends-themed boxes alongside the special Monica’s Marinara sauce. While it has been available across Europe, this marks its debut on the UK menu, generating significant anticipation among British fans.
The initiative reflects McDonald's ongoing strategy to innovate its menu and engage customers through pop culture partnerships, offering a blend of nostalgia and novelty that resonates with adult audiences.
