The iconic ‘90s collectibles return to Australia for a limited time only

12 February 2024: After launching more than 25 years ago, Macca's is bringing back a wave of ‘90s nostalgia with the reintroduction of McNugget Buddies, who for the first time come with their very own collectors trading cards.

The McNugget Buddies have had a modern makeover, designed in partnership with visionary artist, street style icon and Macca’s fanatic, Kerwin Frost, inspired by his childhood experiences and belief that everyone should feel free to express themselves.

From Wednesday 14 February, six different McNugget Buddy collectibles will be available in restaurants across Australia, with each McNugget Buddy bringing a unique wardrobe, personality and hobby.

The McNugget Buddies come as part of the new, adult-sized Kerwin Frost Box. The box offers a choice between 10-piece Chicken McNuggets or a Big Mac, complemented by World Famous Fries, a drink, and a special McNugget Buddy collectible.

Amanda Nakad, Director of Marketing for McDonald’s Australia said: “No matter how long it’s been, Macca’s fans never forget the feeling of opening a Happy Meal box to see the surprises inside.

“Fans told us they wanted to celebrate that quintessential childhood experience again, so we’ve delivered for the big kids. We’re excited to bring the McNugget Buddies back to Australia, creating more feel good moments and memories for our customers.”

The McNugget Buddies were first introduced to Aussies in 1998 as part of a limited-time Happy Meal featuring glow-in-the-dark McNugget Buddy collectibles. They’re best known for their wacky adventures, wild imaginations, unique personas and interchangeable outfits.

Kerwin Frost, Visionary Artist said: “I’ve loved McDonald’s since I was a kid. I even had my own Ronald McDonald doll that I brought to picture day at school, and it was my dream to collect all the McNugget Buddies.

“Now, coming up with my own special set of Buddies – each one representing different aspects of self-expression – it's unreal, a dream come true. McDonald’s has been a great partner from day one, and they’ve truly allowed me to create without limits. I hope the Kerwin Frost Box will serve as a reminder for people to hone their creativity and not be afraid to show the world who they really are.”

After taking the United States by storm, the highly anticipated McNugget Buddies are finally arriving down under to take the big kids on a trip down memory lane. The limited- edition range of McBuddies will be available across Macca’s restaurants nationwide, via the MyMacca’s app and McDelivery from 14 February 2024, for a limited time only and whilst stock lasts.

Menu	Description	Image
Kerwin Frost	The Mayor is a true champion of the Buddies and encourages them to be themselves. In his free time, catch him adding art to his collection or fixing things around the neighborhood.
Don Bernice	The Wise Stylist, an experienced fashion designer who creates all the outfits for the Buddies, while also offering stern advice (that’s always nice!). After all, she is “don” – the very best!
Uptown Moe	The Neighborhood Hero, the no-nonsense, street-smart, supportive guy from around the block everyone knows and loves. He also gives the best motivational speeches on a whim.
Waffutu	The Curious Optimist was raised by the whole neighborhood. She spreads positivity wherever she goes and can turn any frown upside down with the wave of a wand and tilt of a crown.
BRRRICK	The Cool Guy, the most adventurous Buddy who speaks in puns, loves trying new things and techno music. He’s lowkey nervous, but always cool under pressure.
Darla	The Dreamer, a soft-spoken yet peacefully confident singer who is pursuing her dream of becoming a superstar as the lead singer of “The Frostettos.” When she’s not on stage, she’s running her local Macca’s – where she’s employee of the month every month!

ENDS

About McDonald’s Australia

Australia’s first McDonald’s restaurant opened in Yagoona, Sydney, in 1971. Today there are over 1,025 McDonald’s restaurants across Australia, approximately 85 percent of which are franchised and run by local businessmen and women. The organisation employs more than 115,000 people in restaurants and corporate offices Australia-wide and is one of the largest employers of youth in the country. McDonald’s spends over $60 million per annum on training and people development.

For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com.au or McDonald’s social channels: Facebook , Twitter Instagram ,TikTok or YouTube.

About Kerwin Frost

Kerwin Frost is an artist from Harlem in the USA, most well-known for his work within fashion and music. He is a creative director, a DJ, street style icon, and host of his own interview series. He is also a lifelong fan of McDonald’s and has teamed up with the brand to bring the Kerwin Frost Box to life.