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The McRib, McDonald's iconic barbecue pork sandwich, may be returning in 2024 after hints from the chain. A test notification in the U.K. has sparked speculation of an October relaunch, and fans are eagerly awaiting its return.
McDonald's Hints at McRib's 2024 Return, Sparking Speculation of a Mid-October Relaunch
Despite several attempts to retire it, McDonald's has yet to remove its iconic McRib from the menu permanently. Recently, customers have noticed hints that the barbecue pork sandwich may return sooner than expected.
According to Eat This, Not That!, the McRib, known for sparking divided customer opinions, consists of a seasoned boneless pork patty slathered in tangy barbecue sauce, topped with slivered onions and pickles, and served on a toasted bun. Since its debut in 1981, McDonald's has periodically reintroduced the sandwich as a limited-time offer. Though discontinued at least four times, it stays on the menu for a while. In fact, after a "Farewell Tour" in 2022, the McRib returned briefly in select markets in 2023.
Clues about the McRib's 2024 return began to surface in the summer when McDonald's U.S. President Joe Erlinger hinted during a June appearance on the TODAY show that the sandwich would make a comeback "later this year." While specific details were not shared, a recent development fueled further speculation. On September 20, McDonald's customers in the United Kingdom received a test notification via the app that read "McRib_Test.notification_16.10.24 [TEST]," according to the Manchester Evening News.
McRib Fans Speculate on Mid-October U.K. Relaunch After Accidental Notification Sparks Buzz
Fans speculated that, based on the date embedded in the message, this notification might indicate a mid-October McRib relaunch in the U.K. Some customers believed the notification was sent accidentally. In contrast, others suggested it was a deliberate marketing move to generate buzz around the sandwich’s return.
"McDonald's just let everyone in the U.K. know the McRib is coming back with a broken test notification," a customer posted on X (formerly Twitter). Meanwhile, another user commented, "This is such an obvious marketing stunt."
McDonald's has yet to respond to inquiries about the McRib’s official return date in the U.S. or whether it will be reintroduced in the U.K. However, with Erlinger's confirmation that the McRib would be back before the end of 2024, American fans likely won't have to wait much longer.
In the meantime, McDonald's customers can look forward to other exciting launches, including a new Crocs Happy Meal and the return of the Pumpkin and Crème Pie.
