Which fast-food franchise is known for its 'Happy Meal' for children?

Which fast-food franchise is known for its “Happy Meal” for children? McDonald’s is the canonical answer.

McDonald’s introduced the Happy Meal nationally in the United States in 1979, although an early version appeared in Kansas City in 1977. The meal was designed specifically for children and typically combines a small entrée, side, drink, and toy or book in themed packaging.

The concept grew from earlier children’s-meal ideas, including a “Menú Ronald” created by McDonald’s operators in Guatemala. Advertising executive Bob Bernstein developed the familiar boxed format after noticing how strongly children responded to colorful cereal packaging. Early Happy Meal promotions included toys, games, and tie-ins with films or television shows.

A common mix-up is confusing the Happy Meal with other children’s meals, such as Burger King’s Kids Meal or the former Burger Chef Funmeal. Other chains offer kids’ meals, but “Happy Meal” is McDonald’s trademarked product name. The menu contents vary by country, and the included toy or book is often linked to a current entertainment franchise.