What was the name of McDonald's 1970s advertising slogan that promised customers a break?

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McDonald’s 1970s advertising slogan that promised customers a break was “You Deserve a Break Today.”

The slogan was introduced in 1971 and became one of the company’s most famous advertising lines. It connected a McDonald’s visit with relief from work, chores, or daily routine, making the restaurant feel like a small reward rather than only a place to buy food.

Advertising agency Needham, Harper & Steers created the campaign. Its song-based commercial style helped the phrase remain memorable and made the slogan closely associated with McDonald’s during the decade.

The wording is often shortened incorrectly to “You deserve a break.” The complete canonical slogan includes “Today,” which gives it the immediate, time-specific invitation central to the campaign.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Oct. 2026

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