McDonald's "Gatecrashed by Grimace"

McDonald's 50th birthday celebrations have taken an unexpected turn, as the iconic purple mascot, Grimace, crashes the party. This beloved character, known for his love of shakes, is bringing his signature treat to the UK for the first time. The Grimace Shake, a viral sensation in the US, is set to make waves across the pond.

A Limited-Time Treat

The blueberry-flavored milkshake, blended with a creamy base, will be available in McDonald's restaurants nationwide for a limited time. This exclusive offering is sure to draw in fans eager to try the drink that has taken social media by storm. The #grimaceshake hashtag has amassed over 251.3 million posts on TikTok, showcasing the drink's popularity.

A Purple Takeover

To coincide with the Grimace Shake's arrival, McDonald's UK is transforming its social media channels. Grimace will be taking over, responding to comments and interacting directly with fans. This playful engagement is sure to excite the brand's loyal customer base.

Merch Madness and a Tasting Party

To further celebrate the 50th anniversary, McDonald's is hosting a special merch pop-up shop. Fans can purchase exclusive items from the "I Had My Birthday Party at McDonald's" range, which features nostalgic designs from the 80s. The event will also offer attendees the opportunity to taste the Grimace Shake before its official launch.

A Nationwide Tasting Party

On the launch day, Grimace will host a virtual tasting party on McDonald's UK's Instagram Live. Fans can tune in to enjoy music, a countdown, and the chance to win prizes. The event will be promoted through vintage-inspired OOH fly posters, featuring "Superstar DJ Grimace" and the event details.

A Sweet End to the Celebration

As the Grimace Shake takes center stage, McDonald's is ensuring that the 50th birthday celebration ends on a high note. With a limited-time offer, social media engagement, and exciting merchandise, the brand is creating a memorable experience for fans of all ages.

Credits

CAMPAIGN TITLE: Gatecrashed by Grimace

CLIENT: McDonald’s UK

ADVERTISING AGENCY:  Leo Burnett UK

CCO: Mark Elwood

EXECUTIVE CREATIVE DIRECTORS: Andrew Long & James Millers

SENIOR CREATIVE: Alice Pearce

CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF DESIGN: Dave Allen

DESIGNER DIRECTOR: Rupert Knowlden

DESIGN TEAM: Georgia Glen (Mid-Weight Designer), Danny Flint (Senior Designer), Tomek Drozdowski (Senior Designer)

DESIGNER: Jakk Breedon

DESIGN PRODUCER: Ethan Lynton

STUDIO DIRECTOR: Richard Pettiford

DEPUTY CSO: Tom Sussman

HEAD OF PLANNING: Joe Beveridge

STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Ben Obadia

COMMS PLANNER: Jen Leung, Imo Gowen

BUSINESS DIRECTOR: Steph Bates

ACCOUNT DIRECTOR: Alice Pavey, Charlotte Crawley

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER: Nicola Kuan

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Brittony Kelly

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER: Laura Taylor

PHOTOGRAPHER: Alex Bingham

MEDIA BUYING AGENCY: OMD

PR AGENCY: Red Consultancy

CRM AGENCY: Armadillo

BTL/IN-RESTAURANT: Linney

McDonald’s:

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICE, S.V.P: Michelle Graham-Clare

MARKETING DIRECTOR: Matt Reischauer

HEAD OF MARKETING AFFINITY, TRUST & FAMILY: Chloe Bissell

MARKETING MANAGER: Emma O’Neill

MARKETING MANAGER (SOCIAL): Ana Saffer

BRAND MANAGER: Emma Pellegrinelli

CAMPAIGN ASSISTANT: Abi Campbell