Photo: Hesburger
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Hesburger will stop selling its traditional children’s meal in spring 2026. The Finnish fast-food chain confirmed the decision after internal discussions lasting five years.
The children’s meal, which includes a burger, fries, a drink, and either a toy or a mini ice cream, has been part of Hesburger’s menu for over 30 years. The company cited two main reasons for the change: declining interest in toys and a commitment to reduce plastic use.
“Demand for the toys has decreased, and many children now choose the mini ice cream instead,” said Kari Salmela, CEO of Hesburger.
According to Ieva Salmela, director of international communication and marketing at Hesburger, the company also considered new marketing recommendations. Finland’s Ministry of Social Affairs and Health published guidelines last year discouraging the marketing of unhealthy food to children. Hesburger referred to these recommendations in its press release.
Despite the end of the children’s meal, standard burger meals will remain available. The company will continue its toy campaigns until the end of 2025 and plans to sell off remaining toy inventory afterwards.
Currently, a children’s meal costs €6.45 at the Hesburger in Tripla shopping centre in Helsinki. Buying the items separately would cost €7.80. Price details for 2026 have not been released.
Reactions among young customers have varied. At Tripla’s Hesburger, some children were hearing the news for the first time. Tilda Reunaa, 11, said the decision does not bother her because she never ordered the children’s meal. Natalia Björkman, 6, and her sister Daniela Björkman, 9, expressed disappointment.
“Since I come here so often, it won’t be as much fun anymore,” Daniela said.
Fanni Palviainen, 10, who also visited the location, said she preferred to buy just the toy, showing off a Snoopy bag she had picked up.
Kari Salmela noted that customer feedback had played a role in the company’s decision.
“Many customers over the years have asked us to stop giving plastic toys,” he said. “The reaction to this announcement has been mostly positive.”
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
