McDonald's launches Big Arch burger in Spain

McDonald's has launched the Big Arch in Spain, a new burger designed to compete with the Big Mac by focusing on size rather than premium exclusivity. The sandwich features two beef patties and three slices of white cheddar cheese, notably omitting the middle bun characteristic of the Big Mac.

This launch marks a strategic shift for the company. CFO Ian Borden noted in March 2025 that previous attempts to capture the market through premium burgers and chef collaborations had failed, stating, “We thought the opportunity was premium burgers, but it was a mistake.” Instead, the company is pivoting toward larger portions to meet consumer demand.

The Big Arch was previously tested in Canada and Portugal. While the rollout in the United States faced some reputational challenges following a criticized promotional video by CEO Chris Kempczinski, the product continues its global expansion.