Popular "Gratin Croquette" Returns for Limited Sale This Year TV Commercial Animated with Voice Acting by Atsuko Maeda and Others
McDonald's Japan has revamped its long-selling Gracoro (Gratin Croquette), a popular winter staple burger since its debut in 1993, and will offer it for a limited time starting December 4.
Ahead of the launch, a "Gratin Croquette CM Animation Preview & Product Launch Event" was held on November 28 at Akihabara UDX in Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo.
The renewed Gracoro features a rich flavor profile with a savory egg sauce, enhanced croquette sauce with more spice, and a fluffy steamed bun with added butter. A luxurious "Beef Demi Cheese Gracoro" will also be available, featuring a rich, deep beef demi-glace sauce and added cheddar cheese.
Marketing Division Manager Mami Sakashita introduced the product concept and communication strategy: "We are launching the Gracoro, with its 26-year history, again this year. Our theme is 'Warmth is a reward.' We want to convey the simple joy of sharing Gracoro with someone special during winter."
She also announced that the TV commercial features animation for the first time in Gracoro's history.
The "Warmth is a Reward" edition features three female characters. The trio have warmed their bodies, hearts, and friendship by sharing Gracoro together as a winter tradition. The commercial depicts their usual year-end routine. Voice actors include talent Atsuko Maeda, voice actress Ayana Taketatsu, and Aimi, with an original "Gracoro Song" performed by the three playing as background music.
Maeda appeared on stage wearing a red scarf outfit inspired by her own anime character. Reflecting on the shoot, Maeda said, "I saw the finished work for the first time. The characters are cute, and I'm happy to be part of this world." She added, "The recording had a warm, fuzzy atmosphere; it was fun and a very warm set. I was sad when it ended and wanted to keep going."
After receiving a product explanation from Senior Manager Shigeaki Wakana of the Menu Management Department, Maeda sampled two types of Gracoro alongside representatives selected from invited fan club members. She raved, "Delicious! You can really feel the attention to detail. The buns are sweet—I'd want to eat them on their own!"
As behind-the-scenes footage of the recording played, co-stars Taketatsu and Aimi joined her, and the three performed the commercial song together.
Singing in public for the first time in a while, Maeda seemed shy, saying, "How many years has it been... maybe three or four?" Yet, her voice showed no sign of rust, energizing the fans in the venue. She smiled, saying, "It was wrapped in a really nice atmosphere." Taketatsu commented, "Since we recorded separately, I'm happy we got to sing together as three for the first time," and Aimi added, "It made me feel warm inside."
Finally, the trio left messages: "We hope you create warm memories with someone special, just like the girls in the commercial," and "Enjoy your Gracoro while listening to this heartwarming song."
Gurakoro website:
http://www.mcdonalds.co.jp/campaign/gracoro/
Was this article helpful?
Share this article
