As little kids, nothing was better than getting a “free” toy with your food.
It didn't matter if the toy was a simple collectible baseball card inside a cereal box or an exclusive Tamagotchi inside a McDonald's Happy Meal.
💵💰 Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter 💵💰
Sometimes, we would only take a few bites of the food, because at the end of the day, we were too distracted playing with our new toy to eat, unless you had strict parents who wouldn't allow you to open the toy until you had finished all your food.
Nonetheless, kids are very persuasive, and because many restaurants and fast-food chains know kids love receiving a surprise with their meal, they have invested time and resources into launching exciting limited-time toys.
Related: McDonald’s brings back experimental menu item 13 years later
As the pioneer of the fast-food kids' meal trend, it's no surprise that McDonald's sells over 1 billion Happy Meals annually worldwide, which accounts for a big part of its sales.
Others have followed in the fast-food giant's footsteps by launching their own versions of the iconic Happy Meal, but none have yet to reach McDonald's fame.
However, a long-time player has begun prioritizing its Kids' Meal by joining forces with a popular toy maker that kids love.
Wendy's joins forces with an exciting new partner to launch new Kids' Meal toys
Wendy's (WEN) is partnering with toy company Hasbro (HAS) to launch a new line of Kids' Meal toys featuring Potato Head, a beloved character from the Disney (DIS) film Toy Story.
This new collection of toys comprises 12 different Potato Head characters dressed in various costumes.
However, this launch is unlike any others, because Wendy's is giving customers two toys, which can be mixed and matched, per meal purchased.
Related: McDonald’s menu adds new version of a much-mocked classic
This move might be a savvy way for the fast-food chain to encourage people to visit Wendy's more often. If each purchase comes with a different set, collecting all six would only take six visits or six Kids' Meals.
The new Wendy's Potato Head Kids' Meal collection is available for a limited time at all participating U.S. and Canadian restaurants while supplies last.
Wendy's launches a new in-app offer to encourage purchasing a Kids' Meal
Wendy's knows consumers' budgets have been a bit tighter due to the current uncertain economy.
So the fast-food chain has unlocked a new in-app deal to make purchasing a kids' meal more affordable for parents.
More Food News:
- Iconic fast-food burger chain announces late-night hours expansion
- Beloved Halloween-themed restaurant faces troublesome closure
- McDonald's menu adds new Happy Meal with collectible toys fans will love
Customers who download and use the Wendy's app can get a free Kids' Meal with the purchase of a premium combo meal, which will make adults and kids happy.
The Wendy's Kids' Meal includes a choice of a hamburger, cheeseburger, four-piece original chicken nuggets, or four-piece spicy chicken nuggets. It also comes with a side of fries or apples and a beverage of choice or Jr. Frosty.
Related: Veteran fund manager unveils eye-popping S&P 500 forecast
