McDonald’s is set to bid farewell to self-serve soda dispensers at its U.S. outlets, as confirmed by the company on Tuesday. By 2032, the fast-food giant plans to eliminate these self-service “beverage stations” across its American locations, aiming to ensure a uniform experience for both customers and employees, whether they dine in, visit the drive-through, or place orders through the company’s app. McDonald’s has not specified how this change will affect international locations, nor has it provided details on how drink refills will be managed after the removal of self-serve machines.
Some patrons have already noticed the absence of self-serve soda machines at certain locations and have shared their experiences on social media. One customer mentioned a recent visit where they had to request a refill from an employee, which took over five minutes, contrasting it with the convenience of self-service refills that took less than 30 seconds.
This decision has sparked questions on social media about the ability to create custom mixed beverages, with one user lamenting the end of “hybrid drinks.”
In recent years, McDonald’s has implemented various changes, including the introduction of an automated restaurant near Fort Worth, Texas, the launch of revamped burgers featuring “pillowy” buns, and the addition of Krispy Kreme donuts to select locations.
As of late July, McDonald’s reported that digital sales, encompassing app, delivery, and kiosk orders, constituted nearly 40% of systemwide sales for the second quarter of 2023. During this period, revenue increased by 14% to approximately $6.5 billion.
McDonald’s President and CEO Chris Kempczinski remarked, “The McDonald’s brand has never been stronger,” emphasizing the company’s ongoing evolution.
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