McDonald’s Latest Adult Happy Meal Toys Reselling at Huge Markup

McDonald’s revived adult Happy Meal toys have proven a huge success for the embattled fast-food chain, and now they’re selling online for an obscene markup, Fortune reports.

Last week, McDonald’s relaunched its latest Collector’s Meal which aims to “unlock core memories around some of our favorite McDonald's moments” for nostalgic fans, the chain said in an August 7 statement. With each meal, customers receive one of six collectible cups which are inspired by McDonald’s most popular Happy Meal toys. These include a Barbie and Hot Wheels-themed cup; an homage to Beanie Babies; one which recalls McDonald’s legendary characters such as Grimace; a collaboration between Shrek, Jurassic Park, and the Minions; and a tribute to Coca-Cola.

While the Collector’s Meal retails for around $12 at most McDonald’s locations, these stylish new cups have been going for nearly $100 on resale sites. One eBay seller is offering a single Coca-Cola glass for $48.88, or two identical for $88.88. Complete sets of six unopened glasses are selling from anywhere between $79 to $202. One offer has three unopened cups for $150. Many are selling single glasses for somewhere between $10 and $20.

Much like Trader Joe’s mini tote bags which launched to much fanfare earlier this year, desire for McDonald’s collectible cups has seemingly surpassed even what the chain expected.

“There's an undeniable thrill when you snag that one elusive McDonald's collectible or the final piece to complete your collection,” Morgan Flatley, global chief marketing officer at McDonald’s, said in the statement. “We're bringing back some of our most-loved keepsakes with a twist, giving fans a memory that they can hold in their hands.”

No doubt, the toys have helped McDonald’s regain some advantage over its competitors after the chain posted its worst quarter since before the pandemic. News broke earlier this week that Chili’s Big Smasher Burger, a Big Mac tribute which costs a fraction of McDonald’s signature offering, was pulling in huge business for the Tex-Mex chain.