If you've been grabbing your own refills at McDonald's in Battle Creek, that's about to change. The fast food chain is removing self-serve soda fountains from all U.S. locations by 2032.

 

Starting now and rolling out over the next several years, customers will need to ask crew members for drink refills instead of helping themselves at the fountain. Some McDonald's restaurants in Michigan have already made the switch.

 

Why Is McDonald's Making This Change?

 

McDonald's announced the change in 2023, saying it wants to create a consistent experience across all ordering methods, whether you're using the drive-thru, mobile app, or dining in. The company told USA TODAY the new system applies to McDelivery, app orders, kiosks, drive-thru, and in-restaurant dining.

 

"This change is intended to create a consistent experience for both customers and crew across all ordering points," McDonald's said in a statement.

 

The company hasn't said whether food safety concerns, theft prevention, or other factors influenced the decision. But restaurant owners in Illinois who tested the new "crew pour" system in 2023 reported minimal customer complaints.

 

What Battle Creek Customers Can Expect

 

Local McDonald's locations will gradually transition to the new system between now and 2032. When you visit, you'll still get your initial drink with your meal, but refills will need to be requested from a crew member instead of walking to the fountain yourself.

 

The change affects all McDonald's restaurants nationwide, including Battle Creek area locations on Capital Avenue, Beckley Road, and Columbia Avenue.

 

New Drinks Coming to the Menu

 

At the same time fountains are going away, McDonald's is adding six new specialty drinks starting May 6, including:

 

Lemonade Refreshers:

• Strawberry Watermelon Refresher
• Mango Pineapple Refresher
• Blackberry Passion Fruit Refresher

 

"Dirty Sodas" (soda mixed with flavored cold foam):

• Sprite Berry Blast
• Orange Dream
• Dirty Dr Pepper

 

"Our fans have an obsession with beverages, and soon drinks won't just be a reason you come to McDonald's, they'll be the reason," said Alyssa Buetikofer, McDonald's USA's chief marketing and customer experience officer.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: When will Battle Creek McDonald's locations remove self-serve soda fountains?

A: McDonald's is phasing out self-serve fountains gradually between now and 2032. Some Michigan locations have already made the change, while others will transition over the coming years.

 

Q: Will I still be able to get free refills at McDonald's?

A: Yes, refills are still available, but you'll need to ask a crew member to pour them for you instead of filling your own cup at the fountain.

 

Q: What new drinks is McDonald's adding to replace the fountain experience?

A: Starting May 6, McDonald's is launching six specialty drinks including three lemonade refreshers (Strawberry Watermelon, Mango Pineapple, and Blackberry Passion Fruit) and three "dirty sodas" (Sprite Berry Blast, Orange Dream, and Dirty Dr Pepper).