McDonald’s exclusive McGold Card grants holders free meals for life or a set period, depending on whether it’s issued by corporate or a local franchise, and fans are outraged to learn who owns one
McDonald’s has sparked outrage after it was revealed that one of its exclusive McGold Cards, which grants the holder free meals for life or a designated period, has been given to American billionaire Bill Gates. The fast food giant’s card is a rarely issued perk with some recipients able to use them at any McDonald’s restaurant worldwide, while others are restricted to their local area.
Social media users were left fuming after learning that the Microsoft co-founder, who is reportedly worth $117.1 billion (£85billion) holds the coveted card, with many arguing he is undeserving due to his wealth. The Instagram page How Things Work shared the news about Gates’ McGold Card, leading to a flurry of critical comments.
One user sarcastically quipped: “Glad to see McDonald’s helping those truly in need.” Another added: “Pretty sure he can afford a happy meal babes.”
A third humorously remarked: “McWhy.” A fourth user commented: “Because billionaires need free fast food.” A fifth suggested: “Give it to a poor family.”
A different critic shared their disdain: “Couldn’t pick anyone underprivileged and hungry? No, no…let’s give free food to one of the richest men in the world…while we fight for children to be fed at school.”
According to the caption on Instagram, the shiny McGold Card that Bill Gates has can be used at any McDonald’s around the globe.
Gates revealed his unique card during a TikTok video with chef Nick DiGiovanni, proudly displaying his pass which reads: “Entitled to a complimentary meal at any McDonald’s. Michael R. Quinlan Chairman and CEO McDonald’s Corporation.”
Though Gates openly shared in the video that he rarely uses the card given his ability to pay for meals himself.
Joining Gates in the elite circle of McGold Card holders is Warren Buffett, the renowned American billionaire investor, entitled to free lifetime McDonald’s in Omaha, Nebraska only.
Reader’s Digest disclosed Rob Lowe had a McGold Card limited to Santa Barbara and Goleta, California, courtesy of David Patterson, whose father was behind the Egg McMuffin. His card expired in 2016.
The magazine hinted at the exclusivity of the McGold Card, indicating it’s not within easy reach for regular people.
According to Reader’s Digest, the fast food giant McDonald’s held a ‘McDonald’s for Life’ competition in December 2022 as part of their ‘SZN of Sharing’ promotion.
Over a fortnight, each purchase made through the McDonald’s app earned customers another entry to win the coveted McGold Card, along with three more entries to share with family or friends.
The card entitled the lucky winner to two complimentary McDonald’s meals every week for a whopping 50 years.
McDonald’s has been approached for a comment.