My daughter has this crazy tradition of eating a McDonald’s Big Mac in every country that she visits.  When we traveled to five central european countries this summer, I joined her and paid special attention to the menus in each country. So, what did I learn on my summer vacation besides we are both too old to be eating at fast food restaurants in wonderful vacation spots?

First, McDonald’s fast food chain has different menus items in every country we visited. Why do they have shrimp wraps in Prague, a Toblerone McFlurry in Belgium, a McToast breakfast item in Germany?

1. They appreciate the difference in the culture and tastebuds of their different markets.

2. I’m sure if one item is a big hit for them in one country, they may expand it to others. This serves as a beta test for new products.

3. Even though most people choose fast food establishments like McDonalds to experience consistency in their food no matter where they dine in the world, adding a few new products to shake things up a bit is always a good business move.

I can’t wait for the shrimp McWrap to make it’s way to the Illinois market. Yummy!