McDonald’s has announced an expansion of its late-night hours at a majority of its locations across the US, extending service until midnight or later.
While most of the menu will be available during these extended hours, some items may be excluded based on franchisee decisions.
The move comes as the fast-food giant announced its plans in early May 2025 to onboard up to 375,000 new employees for the summer.
The company said in a statement shared with USA TODAY: “Our fans know there’s no better way to end an unforgettable night than by feasting on your favourite McDonald’s order. That’s why, as the summer season kicks off, we’re excited to offer up more ways for customers to satisfy their late-night cravings with more choices and expanded hours at more restaurants.”
The initiative excludes McDonald’s restaurants in non-traditional locations such as airports and shopping malls.
The brand is also planning a significant advertising campaign to promote the new late-night hours, which will feature a giveaway of 1,000 virtual gift cards for McCrispy Strips.
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By GlobalDataThe push for extended service hours is part of the company’s strategy to improve sales after a 3.6% decline in US same-store sales in the first quarter of 2025 – its worst performance since the pandemic.
Although the late-night menu will be slightly restricted, with items such as the Double Filet O’ Fish not available for logistical reasons, franchisees will be required to offer staples such as the Quarter Pounder, Chicken McNuggets and McCrispy Strips.
The decision to expand operating hours follows a period of reduced service that began in 2020, when McDonald’s scaled back timings to help franchisees preserve cash during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Other fast-food chains, such as Jack in the Box and Wendy’s, have also extended their operating hours in recent years, seeking to reclaim business lost during Covid.
Two other US restaurant chains, Noodles & Company and Darden Restaurants, have recently announced plans to close outlets.
Noodles & Company plans to close up to 21 locations in 2025 as part of its strategy to optimise its restaurant portfolio and strengthen overall performance. Darden Restaurants closed 18 restaurants in May, including 15 units of its Bahama Breeze Island Grille concept.
