Fast-food giant McDonald’s is preparing a major shift in its US offering by introducing a new range of energy and customized cold beverages, according to internal documents reviewed by The Wall Street Journal.
The lineup includes Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer, Dirty Dr Pepper, and Mango Pineapple Refresher, part of a broader beverage expansion strategy.
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Phased rollout and pricing strategy
The first drinks are expected to launch next month, with the full energy drink range becoming available in August.
McDonald’s plans to price these products below competitors such as Starbucks, Dutch Bros, and Sonic Drive-In.
Investments and franchise profitability
The company expects the new drinks to generate high profit margins for franchisees, who have invested in new equipment to support preparation without slowing service.
A growing beverage market
The move comes as demand for energy and craft beverages rises, with consumers seeking alternatives to coffee and tea.
Chains like Swig and Dutch Bros have benefited from the popularity of “dirty sodas.”
Intensifying competition
Taco Bell and Starbucks are also expanding their beverage offerings.
Targeting a $100 billion market
McDonald’s aims to capture a larger share of the global beverage market, estimated at over $100 billion, building on previous experiments like CosMc’s.
Photo: Fox Business
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