Walmart and McDonald's Face Backlash Over Surveillance Pricing

Walmart patented AI dynamic pricing technology about six months after filing patents for digital shelf labels, while McDonald's faces scrutiny over AI systems that could set different prices per restaurant. Both companies deny discriminatory pricing, but the issue has drawn attention from the FTC, lawmakers and consumer advocates.

• Walmart says income, shopping history and urgency won't change prices
• McDonald's called media coverage 'speculative and misinformed'
• New Jersey will ban personal data for pricing starting in 2027
• FTC sought public comment on surveillance pricing policy in August