McDonald’s Just Announced Plans to Phase Out Its Self-Serve Soda Fountains

McDonald’s has been serving fast food since the ’40s and we’re forever grateful. From the scientifically-proven-to-be-amazing fries to the legendary McD’s secret menu concoctions, there’s something for everyone at the golden arches. Growing up, a lot of us remember having birthday parties at McDonald’s and playing in the PlayPlace with our best friends. Parents brought us Happy Meals after soccer games and long days at school. McDonald’s is definitely an American staple.

Despite its iconic status, this fast-food chain is still looking to optimize production. That’s why the McDonald’s soda fountain is about to undergo a change.

How Is McDonald’s Soda Changing?

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While we have grown accustomed to self-serve soda machines in most fast-food restaurants, we can’t expect things to stay the same forever. McDonald’s reps have explained that self-serve soda fountains will slowly be phased out at McDonald’s locations completely by 2032. Instead, customers will have to ask for refills at the counter. The idea is to make the McDonald’s experience more consistent for both customers and crew members alike.

But why change the McDonald’s soda situation? It has to do with the changing landscape of fast-food restaurants after the pandemic. Customers have stopped dining in as often and instead visit the drive-thru or order delivery. With fewer people dining inside, the dining areas themselves may see significant changes as well. McDonald’s has a new ’80s-themed restaurant coming out soon with a plan for a smaller dining area and restaurant in general.

While we may be sad to see a staple disappear from this all-American chain, that doesn’t mean our experience will be any less delicious. The rumor is, Coke will still taste better at McDonald’s. Besides, we still have so many amazing McDonald’s menu items to choose from. What a wonderful time to be alive, don’t you think?