Across the United States, consumerism and quick access have dominated our way of living in most of recent history. Fast food has become an industry that changed the United States economy as the number of restaurants and chain brands began to spread throughout the country. McDonald’s is none other than the poster child for the compulsion that is fast food and has become a symbol of attainability. 

Launched in 2018, McDonald’s “Follow the Arches” campaign is a commonplace in the eyes of many Americans, and, one may consider, even on a global level. Choosing to use the Golden Arches against a red backdrop with simple road directions offers simplicity to the advertisement’s overall persuasive nature. McDonald’s has become ingrained into the American identity, implementing itself into our culture. The brand doesn’t need further explanation of who they are or what their mission is throughout this particular advertising campaign. Instead, McDonald’s urges the hungry commuters to either take the next left or right off the highway and come fulfill their physiological need. Seeing the billboard, people understand that the Golden Arches are synonymous with food and the opportunity to take advantage of its accessibility. 

“Follow the Arches” speaks to the economic growth and decent work McDonald’s provides throughout its nationwide restaurants. While McDonald’s has a denotation of unhealthy food, this campaign emphasizes the economic opportunities consumers offer to buy products from these restaurants and support those working there. Whether notifying if you missed a McDonald’s or if it’s coming up, the billboards promote economic growth at the countless McDonald’s restaurants opened domestically and internationally. McDonald’s use of a commonplace through their signature arches invites the viewer to visit the iconic entity that has established itself in modern society. By taking the opportunity to promote business, McDonald’s does so without feeling the need to explain itself for its reputation precedes it.