McDonald’s rolling out a major drink test at U.S. restaurants: What to expect

The closure of CosMc’s – McDonald’s short-lived chain designed to test customizable drinks and snacks – means more offerings are coming to the chain’s traditional restaurants.

Just after announcing the closure of CosMc’s five stand-alone locations, McDonald’s said some of its drink offerings are coming to restaurants nationwide.

“Building on the insights gained from the pilot standalone locations, CosMc’s-inspired flavors will be landing at McDonald’s as part of the upcoming US beverage test, seamlessly blending out of this world tastes into the McDonald’s experience. With our new dedicated category team focused on beverages, we know we can bring more delicious and innovative drinks to more fans,” McDonald’s said.

The five existing CosMc’s – one in Illinois and four in Texas – are set to close in June and CosMc’s app will be shuttered. McDonald’s had originally planned to open up to 10 locations in Dallas and San Antonio, Texas. CosMc’s focused on customizable drinks like lemonades, teas, blended beverages and cold coffees, along with specialty items such as tomatillo sandwiches, pretzel bites, ice cream and cookies.

The chain hasn’t announced which beverages are coming to restaurants but said it will be conducting tests “in the future.”

The CosMc shutdown hasn’t slowed progress for the fast-food giant. The chain recently announced it planned to hire 375,000 new employees in one of its biggest pushes in years. The hiring, which will take place over the summer, will be across McDonald’s company-owned and franchise locations.