McDonald’s is closing all five CosMc’s locations next month, ending its alien-themed beverage spinoff after only two years. The chain launched CosMc’s in 2023 to compete with popular coffee chains like Dutch Bros. and Scooter’s that attract Gen Z customers.
CosMc’s focused on sweet drinks and light snacks, targeting afternoon customers. McDonald’s created the separate brand because they worried customizable drinks would overwhelm regular McDonald’s workers. However, fewer customers actually customized their drinks than expected.
The closure comes as McDonald’s faces challenges with two straight quarters of declining sales due to customers spending less during economic uncertainty. This has forced the company to focus on fixing problems with its main McDonald’s restaurants instead.
While CosMc’s locations are disappearing, some menu items will survive. CEO Chris Kempczinski announced that McDonald’s will test new customizable drinks inspired by CosMc’s at regular McDonald’s locations later this year with select franchise owners.
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