Dive Brief:
- McDonald’s confirmed in an email that it will be expanding its McCafé menu next month with new Refreshers and crafted sodas launching nationwide.
- Forthcoming flavors could include Dirty Dr. Pepper and a Mango Pineapple Refresher, according to The Wall Street Journal, which first reported this news, citing people familiar with the matter. The publication also reported that energy drinks are expected to hit menus in August.
- McDonald’s has been plotting a beverage menu expansion since last year, when it began testing drinks inspired by CosMc’s, a beverage-focused concept it shuttered in 2025.
Dive Insight:
McDonald’s originally tested an expanded beverage menu in 500 locations last year and saw growth in incremental occasions across various dayparts, higher average checks and strong results from a Red Bull collaboration.
“Our fans’ love for McDonald’s beverages runs deep, from rallying for the return of Hi-C Orange Lavaburst to coining the iconic ‘Spicy Sprite,’” McDonald’s U.S. said in an emailed statement. “We’ll have more to share soon, and we’re excited for fans across the country to taste what’s next.”
According to The Wall Street Journal, franchisees have invested thousands of dollars to add equipment that can mix these new drinks. McDonald’s worked with operators to figure out how best to prepare the beverages, the publication said.
McDonald’s has been focused not just on expanding its beverage menu, but also adding traffic-driving value menus and limited-time premium offerings. Earlier this year, it added the Big Arch Burger at a price point around $9, followed by its Under $3 Menu, which highlights at least 10 items available during different dayparts for less than $3.
Other chains have expanded their beverage offerings with refreshers and similar drinks over the last year, including Taco Bell, Whataburger, Panera, Starbucks and Sonic in a bid to appeal to younger demographics seeking sweet and caffeinated beverages and to boost average check.
