Earlier this week, McDonald's began testing specialty McCafé drinks at a number of its Northern California stores. With the chain's ongoing efforts to boost its coffee selection, the new drinks could make McDonald's a go-to spot for those looking for a quick caffeine fix.
The specialty McCafé drinks consist of three espresso-based beverages made with the chain's "sustainably sourced espresso beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms." The drinks are available in three sizes and they can be served hot or iced. The first of the new drinks is the Caramel Macchiato, which consist of espresso blended with caramel flavor, milk and topped with caramel drizzle. The second is the French Vanilla Cappuccino, which combines vanilla flavor with milk and a layer of creamy foam. Finally, the chain's Americano combines just espresso and hot water for a rich and strong drink.
Fast Food Espresso Menus
McDonald's is Now Testing Specialty McCafé Drinks in Northern California
Trend Themes
1. Specialty Espresso-based Fast Food Beverages - The trend of fast food chains offering specialty espresso-based beverages is on the rise, creating opportunities for further coffee and beverage innovation in the fast-food industry.
2. Sustainable Sourcing in Fast Food - The trend of using sustainably sourced coffee beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms is becoming more prevalent in fast food, leading to the potential for more sustainable practices in the food industry.
3. Fast Food Coffee Competitiveness - The increasing emphasis on coffee and specialty drinks in fast food could lead to increased competition in the coffee market among fast-food chains.
Industry Implications
1. Fast Food Industry - Fast food chains are embracing the trend of specialty coffee drinks and finding opportunities to improve and expand their beverage menus to keep up with evolving consumer tastes.
2. Coffee Industry - As fast food chains continue to offer more specialty coffee drinks, there may be disruption in the traditional coffee industry landscape as consumers shift towards the convenience and affordability of fast-food offerings.
3. Sustainable Food Industry - The trend of using sustainably sourced coffee beans in fast food could spill over into other areas of the food industry, leading to increased demand for sustainable sourcing practices.