McDonald's fries backpack sells out fast in China
McDonald's China sold 5,700 units of its limited-edition Big Fries Backpack for Big Fries Day, priced at RMB119 (about $17). The design, based on a fan-made bag by creator Daomeidan, sold out across three drops in days.
LIFE
7/29/20262 min read
McDonald's China has put a new twist on "fries on the side." Its limited-edition Big Fries Backpack turns the chain's familiar brown takeout bag into a wearable accessory, complete with two detachable fry cartons ready to hold snacks — or just for looks.
Made for McDonald's China's 12th annual Big Fries Day, the backpack mimics an ordinary fast-food order down to the last detail: a brown paper-like exterior with the Golden Arches, printed fry graphics, folded-bag creases, and a removable charm shaped like a receipt.
The most eye-catching touch is the pair of red fry-container pockets attached to each side with Velcro. They can actually hold fries, though most owners will probably want to keep the grease off a brand-new bag, and they pop off when a plainer look is called for.
Inside, the design gets more practical. The main compartment has dividers and reportedly fits a 13- or 14-inch laptop, and even the zipper pulls carry the theme, shaped like fries dipped in ketchup.
The idea started with a Chinese craft creator known online as Daomeidan, who posted a handmade backpack styled after McDonald's delivery packaging. After it caught on online, McDonald's China teamed up with the creator to turn it into an official release.
McDonald's put out 5,700 backpacks through its official app and the McMall store on WeChat between July 23 and 25, priced at RMB119 (about $17) plus 10 membership points. Stock rolled out in three drops — 3,500 units, then 1,500, then 700 — and each batch sold out fast.
On July 25, customers at participating locations could play a potato-themed round of rock-paper-scissors against staff. Winners got a free large fries; everyone else still walked away with a smaller order.
The backpack was part of Big Fries Day, an annual event McDonald's China has run since 2015 around the solar term Dashu, or Major Heat. The promotion leans on the fact that "Dashu" sounds close to the Mandarin term for a large fries order, giving the seasonal date a fast-food twist. Past editions have included fry-themed collectibles, outdoor gear collaborations, and retro summer accessories.
Images: McDonald's China | China Insider