Overview
- McDonald’s is removing dining‑room soda machines in a gradual rollout tied to remodels, with full U.S. phaseout planned for 2032.
- Many locations already use a crew‑pour system where employees make drinks behind the counter and customers request refills from staff.
- The company says the shift improves consistency across drive‑thru, app, kiosk and in‑restaurant orders while tightening portion and inventory control.
- McDonald’s cites hygiene and lower equipment upkeep as added reasons for ending self‑serve stations that once let diners customize and refill on their own.
- New beverage choices arrive nationwide May 6, with three lemonade‑based Refreshers and three crafted sodas, as social posts show mixed reactions to the loss of self‑serve convenience.