McDonald's McRib has competition. Burger King unveiled on Thursday it's summer 2013 menu which includes a limited-edition BK Rib sandwich which rivals the McRib with a boneless patty that has tangy sauce. It comes with sweet bread and butter pickles and will be sold nationally beginning May 21.
USA Today reported that the fast food joint will also introduce new items such as a line of Carolina BBQ sandwiches, sweet potato fries and the return of the Memphis Pulled Pork sandwiches. They will also have a new BBQ chicken salad and oreo desserts.
"Our guests have grown to look for a variety of options," says Eric Hirschhorn, vice president of global innovation accordint to USA Today. "It's not just about beef anymore, but other proteins like chicken and turkey and pork."
The McDonald's McRib has built a loyal fan base. "McRib first appeared on the McDonald's menu as a limited-time offer in 1981. It was offered in the U.S. back in December. Since its creation, it has reappeared irregularly while building a very loyal fan base (see @McRibWatch on Twitter) that clamors for it to be offered permanently, reported burgerbusiness.com. "Its popularity is global. McDonald's stores in Austria last year introduced a deep-fried-patty version called McRibster. And Australian consumers cheered when the Atlanta Pork McRib arrived there last summer as part of a special Summer Olympics menu."
In 2010 Burger King also rolled out Fire-Grilled Ribs which were bone-in and had barbeque sauce. At the time an 8-piece meal was $9 and the product didn't sell in large volume reported USA Today.
The price for the new rib sandwich has a recommended price tag that will vary by market of is $3.49 a la carte and $5.59 as a meal - with fries and soft drink, reported USA Today.
Executives at McDonald's don't seem worried about their new competition.. "We know our customers love McRib and we won't disappoint them," says spokeswoman Danya Proud to USA Today. "It will be returning."
