Troubled Economy Triggers More Fast-Food Discounts

NATIONAL REPORT -- Fast-food restaurants are launching an increasing number of special deals as the shaky economy cuts down on their foot traffic, according to a USA Today report.

Data from market researcher NPD Group shows that the number of annual restaurant visits by an average Millennial consumer (age 16 to 30) has dropped from 245 visits five years ago to 192 this year -- approximately one fewer visit each week. Additionally, a National Restaurant Association survey found that in July, restaurant performance dropped to its lowest level in almost a year, and restaurant owners predicted their worst overall performance expectations in 20 months.

Some of the latest fast-food deals include:

• $10 pizzas from Pizza Hut, which has reintroduced its $10 any pizza deal. "The environment hasn't gotten any better for consumers," said chief marketing officer Kurt Kane.

• Domino's Artisan Pizza for $7.99, making it the first large, three-topping home-delivered pizza in memory at that price point, according to spokesman Chris Brandon.

• Double Burger King meals for $6.99 that include two Whoppers, two small fries and two small drinks.

• More $5 footlong sandwiches from Subway. Starting Oct. 1, customers can order any footlong sub at that price with the exception of premium subs. "You have to have strong offers out there in this economy," said Subway CMO Tony Pace.

• Mini-Blizzard meals from Dairy Queen that include a DQ GrillBurger with cheese, French fries, a medium drink and a Mini Blizzard.

• Taco Bell's 99-cent Chicken Flatbread sandwich. "Deals are more important than ever," said Marketing Vice President Tom Wagner.

• Free ice cream cones from Burger King for customers who order from its value meal.