Former McDonald's chef explains why free drink refills are being discontinued at fast food outlets

Eating at McDonald’s is common for people in all spheres of life. Apart from the fast food, people have been inclined towards the free drink refills with their orders. McDonald’s outlets would initially offer free refills if customers have already purchased a drink once. However, people have been using the concept to their advantage. Many would purchase a single drink and take multiple free refills. Unfortunately, several fast food outlets are discontinuing refilling for free. Former McDonald’s corporate chef, Mike Haracz mentioned that the outlet was getting rid of the same too. He said, “People are finding out that restaurants are removing drink machines from their lobby.”

He also pointed out that several restaurants are likely to charge for every refill in the future. Haracz questioned the reasons owners have for the same. “An internet operating owner mentioned that there is no stipulation in the contract stating that restaurants need to offer free refills,” he explained. He added that this understanding gives owners the freedom to discontinue free refills. However, Haracz said that there’s more to the story. Educating people about the procedure for free refills, the chef highlighted that the outlets have an automatic dispenser. This fills into an empty cup that was purchased.

“The dispenser requires you to refill it into a dirty, used cup which could be the cause of health issues,” the chef said. He added that this causes people to ask for extra cups instead. “The owner mentioned that the cup costs more than the drink. Let me repeat. The cup costs more than the drink,” he stressed. Haracz put forth the idea that discontinuing free refills was not because the beverages were causing a loss. “The cup costs a lot of money,” he added. “It is not the beverage that costs money, they are making a lot of money through the beverages."

Putting the scenario ahead of customers, Haracz questioned why outlets have to discontinue refills. “The refills shouldn’t cost any money, you already bought the cup,” the chef exclaimed. People had many thoughts about the controversy. However, many believed that it was wrong to stop free refills. @frostingtbc wrote, “I’ve been leaving negative reviews on every store that takes the soda out of the fountain lobby.” @dextermartin1967 pointed out, “The free refills must stay. It eases the burden of workers behind the desk.” 

Many people were so accustomed to the free refills that they refused to visit the outlet without the same. @sillyxander commented, “They don’t do the refills, I don’t go there.” @alexavila7827 remarked, “Used to love that place. Haven't been there in a year, too expensive.” @popojackdmycaddy exclaimed, “I have never seen a fast food store loved so much and make so many bad choices so fast.” @holynite_ said, “Free refills have become such a staple, they can't go back now.” However, others had interesting points to consider. @gefo11 wrote, “I get it, it’s unfair. But McD drinks are cheaper than the others.” @dangernoodle1843 shared, ‘I’m mad they don’t have free refills but their serving is already a huge size.”  

You can follow Chef Mike Haracz (@chefmikeharacz) on TikTok for more content on lifestyle.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on May 29, 2024. It has since been updated.