Which advertising slogan did McDonald’s introduce in 1971 as part of a major national campaign?

McDonald’s introduced “You Deserve a Break Today” in 1971 as part of a major national advertising campaign.

The slogan presented McDonald’s as a convenient and welcome pause in a busy day. Its wording connected fast food with relaxation rather than focusing only on speed or product features. The campaign became one of the best-known advertising efforts in the company’s history.

Advertising agency Needham, Harper & Steers created the campaign. The slogan was used in television, radio, print, and in-store promotion, helping establish a consistent emotional message across McDonald’s growing restaurant network.

The phrase is sometimes confused with slogans belonging to other fast-food brands. “Have It Your Way” is associated with Burger King, while “Finger Lickin’ Good” belongs to KFC. McDonald’s later adopted several other slogans as its international marketing developed.