McDonald's Filet-O-Fish Sales Surge in Alexandria
McDonald's Alexandria store saw a surge in sales of its Filet-O-Fish sandwich last Friday, with 300 sold compared to the usual 150. This popular menu item, introduced by Lou Groen in 1962, has a rich history and continues to be a favourite among customers.
The Filet-O-Fish was created by Lou Groen, a franchise owner in Ohio, in response to declining hamburger sales on Fridays during Lent. He introduced the sandwich in his Cincinnati restaurant in 1962. When Ray Kroc, who purchased McDonald's in 1961, agreed to sell two non-meat sandwiches on Fridays, the Filet-O-Fish won easily and was added to the national menu in 1965.
Today, the Alexandria McDonald's store, built in 1993 and featuring a Playland added in 1997, serves the Filet-O-Fish using 100 percent Alaskan Pollock. Grant Groen, grandson of Lou Groen, now owns and operates 12 McDonald's franchises in the region, including the Alexandria store.
The Filet-O-Fish, now a staple at McDonald's, continues to draw customers, as seen in the Alexandria store's increased sales last Friday. With Lent approaching, many may choose this fish sandwich as a meat-free option, keeping Lou Groen's legacy alive.