Join our Waitlist for Expert Advice!

The McRib Is Back, But Only at Select McDonald's — Here's Where to Find It This scarcity is nothing new. In 2022, McDonald's announced a "Farewell Tour" for the McRib, suggesting that it might be the last time customers could get their hands on it.

By Carl Stoffers Edited by Jessica Thomas

Key Takeaways

  • The McRib is making a 2024 comeback but will only be available at select locations.
  • First introduced in 1981, the McRib has developed a dedicated fanbase over the years, with its periodic returns sparking excitement.
  • McDonald's uses McRib's limited availability to create buzz and drive customer engagement.

McDonald's fans, rejoice — well, sort of. The beloved McRib is making yet another comeback in 2024, but as always, there's a twist that might leave some customers disappointed. Although the iconic sandwich is returning to menus, it will only be available at select locations, making it a bit of a treasure hunt for those who crave the saucy boneless pork sandwich.

Related: Considering franchise ownership? Get started now to find your personalized list of franchises that match your lifestyle, interests and budget.

This scarcity is nothing new. In 2022, McDonald's announced a "Farewell Tour" for the McRib, suggesting it might be the last time customers could get their hands on it. That marketing move, however, only heightened the McRib's mystique, with fans wondering if McDonald's would retire the sandwich for good. As we've seen, the McRib has once again found its way back to the menu, but the "limited" label means it won't be accessible everywhere.

For U.S. customers, the McRib will be available in select cities, with Topeka, Kansas and Springfield, Illinois, locations scheduled to start selling the McRib in November and continue into January. On the international front, McDonald's has brought the McRib back to the U.K. for the first time since 2016, where it's available now for a limited time — although, just like in the U.S., availability may vary by region.

Related: See The Entrepreneur 2024 Top Franchise Supplier List

This year's rollout is particularly strategic, as McDonald's continues to play on the sandwich's elusive availability. By creating scarcity, McDonald's generates buzz, drives foot traffic and gets customers to engage with the brand both in-store and online. Many turn to social media to track down the elusive sandwich.

The McRib, known for its cult following, first appeared on McDonald's menus in 1981 and has been a temporary item since leaving the menu in 1985. The sandwich's popularity has even inspired its own online finder, the McRib Locator.

Related: Taking Control of Your Life Through Franchising (Webinar)

Read More: RetailWire

Carl Stoffers

Entrepreneur Staff

Senior Business Editor

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Side Hustle

At 16, She Started a Side Hustle While 'Stuck at Home.' Now It's on Track to Earn Over $3.1 Million This Year.

Evangelina Petrakis, 21, was in high school when she posted on social media for fun — then realized a business opportunity.

Health & Wellness

I'm a CEO, Founder and Father of 2 — Here Are 3 Practices That Help Me Maintain My Sanity.

This is a combination of active practices that I've put together over a decade of my intense entrepreneurial journey.

Business News

Remote Work Enthusiast Kevin O'Leary Does TV Appearance Wearing Suit Jacket, Tie and Pajama Bottoms

"Shark Tank" star Kevin O'Leary looks all business—until you see the wide view.

Business News

Are Apple Smart Glasses in the Works? Apple Is Eyeing Meta's Ran-Ban Success Story, According to a New Report.

Meta has sold more than 700,000 pairs of smart glasses, with demand even ahead of supply at one point.

Money & Finance

The 'Richest' U.S. City Probably Isn't Where You Think It Is

It's not located in New York or California.

Business News

Hybrid Workers Were Put to the Test Against Fully In-Office Employees — Here's Who Came Out On Top

Productivity barely changed whether employees were in the office or not. However, hybrid workers reported better job satisfaction than in-office workers.