MAM
McDonald’s shakes things up with shakashaka fries and a musical twist
MUMBAI: McDonald’s India – north and east is striking a crispy, crunchy, and catchy chord with food lovers through its latest campaign, Shakashaka. This quirky, mockumentary-style campaign reimagines shakeshake fries as more than just a snack, it’s now a musical instrument, thanks to the eccentric and musically enlightened Papaji.
The campaign follows Papaji, who discovers that the rhythmic shaking of the shakeshake fries bag produces the vibrations of the cosmos, leading to the birth of Shakashaka, a movement that teaches fans the art of Shak-ing, Shuk-ing, and Shik-ing their way to flavour-filled enlightenment. “Fries may be French, but the sounds they produce are universal,” declares Papaji, as he recruits a cult of Shakashakers, even hosting live classes at select McDonald’s locations to spread the joy of shaking.
McDonald’s India – north and east has tapped into the insight that fans love the ritual of shaking the fries as much as eating them. With music playing a crucial role in gen z’s identity, the Shakashaka campaign transforms this simple act into an immersive and shareable experience.
McDonald’s India managing director for north and east Rajeev Ranjan said, “At McDonald’s, we believe every meal should be more than just delicious! Our Shakashaka campaign is designed to turn dining into an interactive, fun-filled moment where great taste meets excitement. With every sprinkle, shake, and bite, customers become part of the flavour adventure, making each meal uniquely theirs.”
To make the celebration even more appetising, the campaign also introduces McDeal meals—an affordable way for customers to enjoy their favourite McDonald’s flavours without breaking the bank. Starting at just Rs 69, the new offers include Mcchicken patty with piri piri seasoning for Rs 69, Mcaloo tikki burger with piri piri fries for Rs 79, and veg surprise or chicken surprise with piri piri fries for Rs 89, ensuring a deliciously pocket-friendly indulgence.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
