A class action filed October 8, 2026 accuses McDonald's of algorithmic price fixing, arguing its centralized pricing recommendations undercut competition among franchisees who are supposed to set menu prices independently. Internal data cited in reporting shows average menu prices rose roughly 40% from 2019 to 2024. Later reporting adds that McDonald's weighs franchisees' conformity to the pricing algorithm in renewal and second-location decisions. McDonald's denies that AI sets prices, saying franchisees do. The discussion ties the case to the 2023 $18 Big Mac meal and a wave of similar suits.