McDonald’s plans to transition away from self-service fountain soda over the next six years, moving drink preparation behind the counter as customers question refills and customization.
From Big Arch burgers to themed Happy Meals, McDonald’s is continually changing its menu to fit the times. Among those strategic changes is a rollout we didn’t see coming. The fast food chain plans to transition away from self-service fountain soda within the next six years and instead have employees prepare drinks behind the counter.
The switch-up is expected to take place slowly as restaurants undergo remodeling or updating. In fact, some locations are already implementing employee-made drinks in lieu of self-service. This means customers will no longer be able to pour their own drinks, which could affect customization. (I don’t see a half-Fanta half-Sprite concoction on the official menu.) Many customers have also pointed out that this could change the future of free refills.
However, the move to end self-service drinks gives McDonald’s greater control over quality, portion size, and cleanliness, and will also further cut costs by eliminating the maintenance required for self-serve machines.
Customers weren’t too thrilled with the announcement, taking to social media to share their thoughts. “No more water cups filled with soda lol,” one person commented. “Woo....8oz of beverage and 24oz of ice,” another wrote.
“Expect to get more wrong or under filled drinks with your orders,” stated one customer. “I wouldnt be surprised if this shift only ends up happening in the US, I cannot see this being an issue in some other countries where folx actually have some respect for things like that,” another person shared.
“McDonald’s pays several cents for a soda. Then sells it to us for 10x the cost. They make enough off of us. It’s just greed for them as always,” one person surmised.
McDonald’s has not yet responded to a request for comment on the change.