20-05-2025
McDonald's fans rejoice over return of fan-favorite Happy Meal toy: 'Just left my full-blown adult job to get one'
'Just left my full-blown adult job (on lunch break) to get a Happy Meal.'
That's how one fan reacted to the return of Squishmallows toys at McDonald's — a comeback that's sparking a viral frenzy.
Back by popular demand, the limited-edition plushies are now available in Happy Meals at McDonald's restaurants nationwide until June 9.
Originally released in 2023, the 12 mini Squishmallows were an instant hit.
Collectors have taken to TikTok and Instagram to share their excitement, post unboxings, and trade tips on scoring the full set.
'Dinner sorted for the rest of the week — Happy Meals every day,' one Instagram user joked.
One fan even wrote, 'Y'all making me buy my fully grown-up girlfriend Happy Meals now because of this!'
This year introduces a new cosmic character, Halley the Intergalactic Axolotl, named after Halley's Comet. Each plush comes with a hang tag and digital game code.
McDonald's is working to improve its sales and customer satisfaction by extending fan-favorite deals
Fans have also been leaving reviews of the toys on TikTok.
The hashtag #squishmallows quickly went viral and has been featured in over 680,000 videos.
Matt March, known as @thesouthernsnack on the video platform, gave an honest review of the toy after he purchasing a Squishmallows Happy Meal on Tuesday.
'I was gonna give this set a 10, but I think the texture is a bit firm and not as bit not as squishy as a Squishmallow would be, so I'm gonna get this a nine out of 10,' he revealed.
Prior to Squishmallows, fans were raving about this year's return of Pokémon cards and toys that came with a Happy Meal promoting 'A Minecraft Movie.'
The toy mania couldn't come at a better time for McDonald's. The company is working to bounce back after a tough year.
Not only did its highly publicized outbreak leave one customer dead, but it also suffered falling sales over the past year.
It hopes to boost sales by extending popular deals from its McValue platform. The $5 Meal Deal has become a huge hit after some initial complaints from customers.
Despite the financial difficulties, McDonald's is aiming open 900 restaurants by 2027.
The chain also plans to hire 375,000 employees this summer, it's biggest job push since 2020.
