Before you read this split a 1/3 of an lb. between TWO pieces of hamburger and tell me if this is a deal (without considering the fact the 'meat' will not disintegrate in more then 4 years, not to mention the damn fries).

McDonald’s is testing the Mac Jr. (on the left) and the Grand Mac (on the right) in Central Ohio and Dallas.

Nomura analysts responded to reports that McDonald’s Corp. is testing two new versions of its iconic Big Mac sandwich with the suggestion that the fast-food chain do the same with its french fries.

McDonald’s MCD, -0.02% is currently testing a bigger Big Mac called the “Grand Mac,” which will be composed of a third-pound of beef split between two patties, two slices of American cheese, lettuce, minced onions and pickles on a larger sesame seed bun, according to a release. It‘s priced at $4.89.

The “Mac Jr.” cuts the Big Mac to one layer which is “easier to eat on the go,” the release said. It’s priced between $2.39 and $2.59.

See also: McDonald’s stock heads for 3rd-straigh record close after analyst b...

The test is taking place in 130 restaurants across Central Ohio and in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. The limited-time offer lasts through June 6 in Central Ohio.

The tests are “a sign of the company’s evolving willingness to have no ‘untouchables’ on the menu,” wrote Nomura analysts in a note published Wednesday.

“We look forward to some of the French fry line extensions we’ve seen overseas (such as McDonald’s Australia’s Loaded Fries) perhaps being tested stateside one day, if we’re fortunate,” the note said.

Nomura rates McDonald’s shares buy with a price target of $138.

McDonald’s has offered variations on the Big Mac in Korea, Japan, Germany, Australia and France, according to a company spokesperson.

The fast-food giant is also testing Johnsonville Brats for a limited time in 125 restaurants in Milwaukee. Served with mustard and ketchup on a bratwurst bun, brats will be available until May 22.

See also: Burger King’s plan to sell hot dogs is crazy… and will likely work

McDonald’s has encouraged its local markets to make menu suggestions. During the company’s investor meeting in November 2015, Mike Andres, president of McDonald’s USA, said a small group of restaurants in Southern California were testing breakfast bowls, Boston area restaurants had offered a limited-time lobster roll, and mozzarella sticks had recently been added to menus in New York.

Most of the company’s growth will come from national initiatives, but regional empowerment has given local markets the power to add items to drive incremental sales and profit and provide a pipeline of new ideas, said Andres.

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/mcdonalds-is-testing-new-big-macs-...