How failing at fractions saved the Quarter Pounder A&W tried to give McDonald's famous Quarter Pounder hamburger a run for its money. What happened next may surprise you. Social Sharing Posted: Apr 08, 2021 12:32 PM ET | Last Updated: April 8 The Quarter Pounder was created by a franchisee named Al Bernadin in 1971.(The Associated Press) Under the Influence27:28S10E14 - One Toke Over The Line: 50-Year Marketing Milestones McDonald's is celebrating a 50-year milestone this year. The creation of the Quarter Pounder. You might assume the Quarter Pounder has been around much longer than just 50 years, but not so. The Quarter Pounder was created by a franchisee named Al Bernadin in 1971. He owned two McDonald's locations in Fremont, California.