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McDonald's to phase out self-serve soda fountains

Photo: samy - stock.adobe.com

May 5, 2026

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McDonald's plans to remove self-serve beverage stations from its U.S. dining rooms by 2032, signaling the end of a long-standing fast-food tradition, according to a Fox Business report.

The transition will occur gradually over the next several years as restaurants are remodeled or updated. In many locations, employees have already begun preparing drinks behind the counter rather than having customers pour their own, marking a departure from a self-service model that has defined the industry for decades.

The company said the move allows for greater control over beverage portions, cleanliness and inventory while reducing maintenance costs for the machines. The shift reflects broader trends across the fast-food sector, where companies are prioritizing speed, efficiency and digital ordering over traditional dine-in amenities.

While customers will lose the convenience of easy refills and manual customization, the chain is expanding its beverage lineup to include new options. McDonald's is rolling out "dirty sodas" and refreshers nationwide as consumer preferences shift beyond traditional soft drinks and coffee.

The company stated it will share additional details on the new menu items soon.