McDonald’s (NYSE:MCD) is preparing to expand its beverage lineup in the U.S. with the launch of energy drinks and new flavoured sodas, as part of a broader effort to refresh its cold drink offering, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
The company is expected to introduce several new drinks in the coming weeks, including a Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer, a Dirty Dr Pepper and a Mango Pineapple Refresher, the report said, citing internal company documents.
Energy drink options are anticipated to hit menus from August, marking a notable move into a category that has seen growing demand among younger consumers. The new beverages are expected to be priced competitively, coming in below similar offerings from rivals such as Starbucks, Dutch Bros and Sonic Drive-In.
The push comes as restaurant chains intensify efforts to attract cost-conscious customers amid ongoing economic uncertainty. McDonald’s has increasingly leaned on value-focused promotions to drive footfall, particularly among lower-income consumers.
Earlier this month, the group rolled out a range of menu items priced at $3 or less, alongside a $4 breakfast meal deal across its U.S. locations. Chief executive Chris Kempczinski said in February there were clear signs that the company’s value strategy was gaining traction, with more visits from budget-sensitive diners.
Reuters said it could not independently confirm the report, and McDonald’s did not immediately respond to a request for comment.