McDonald's tries self-serve coffee

McDonald's coffee

McDonald’s is trying several new ways to boost coffee sales, including a self-service option for customers on the run.

The do-it-yourself set-up was discovered inside a Chicago unit by BrandEating.com. A picture shows a vertical dispenser located away from the regular service counter. A touchscreen enables patrons to grab a cusotmizable latte, mocha or cappuccino for $2.99 and pay for it via credit card.

Meanwhile, the chain’s branches in New England, the heart of Dunkin’ Donuts territory, are testing add-on flavor shots similar to the ones Dunkin’ offers. Patrons can supercharge their java with any of nine unsugared flavorings, from coconut to Irish cream, or three sweetened additives, including hazelnut and caramel flavorings.

The self-service device in Chicago also offers add-on shots of flavoring.

Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.

Multimedia

Exclusive Content

Financing

In Red Lobster, a symbol of the challenges with casual dining

The Bottom Line: Consumers have shifted dining toward convenience or occasions, and that has created havoc for full-service restaurant chains. How can these companies get customers back?

Financing

Crumbl may be the next frozen yogurt, or the next Krispy Kreme

The Bottom Line: With word that the chain’s unit volumes took a nosedive last year, its future, and that of its operators, depends on what the brand does next.

Technology

4 things we learned in a wild week for restaurant tech

Tech Check: If you blinked, you may have missed three funding rounds, two acquisitions, a “never-before-seen” new product and a bold executive poaching. Let’s get caught up.

Trending

More from our partners