Mickey D's Sez "McWhopper" Idea Isn't So Hot

McDonald’s executives woke up Wednesday morning to a temporary peace treaty from an unlikely source: Burger King. Now the company has responded, but it’s still unclear whether McDonald’s will agree to the King’s terms, according to The Wall Street Journal.

In full-page ads in two newspapers, Burger King proposed that the two fast-food companies meld their staple burgers — the Whopper and the Big Mac — to create the “McWhopper.”

On Wednesday morning, McDonald’s responded to the gimmick, which is aimed to commemorate Peace Day and raise awareness for non-violence. In a Facebook post, McDonald’s CEO Steve Easterbrook said “we love the intention but think our two brands could do something bigger to make a difference.”

Mr. Easterbrook said Burger King should “join us in a meaningful global effort.”

“And every day, let’s acknowledge that between us there is simply a friendly business competition and certainly not the unequaled circumstances of the real pain and suffering of war,” he wrote.

As for next steps, Mr. Easterbrook said McDonald’s will “be in touch.”

Inspiration for a good cause @burgerking. Let’s do something to make a real difference. http://t.co/JjycHwwD5B

— McDonald's (@McDonaldsCorp) August 26, 2015

In a dig to Burger King’s grasp for attention and social media buzz, Mr. Easterbrook finished his note with, “P.S. A simple phone call will do next time.”