If you’re a fan of McDonald’s lattes, mochas, or cappuccinos, you might have noticed they’ve gone missing from the menu at certain locations. This isn’t due to supply shortages or recipe changes but rather a technical issue with the espresso machines many McDonald’s locations rely on.
Recently, a defect in the Melitta CT8 espresso machines, used in numerous McDonald’s restaurants, has caused a significant stir. While this isn’t the first time McDonald’s equipment has made headlines cue the perpetually broken ice cream machines it is creating notable disruptions for coffee lovers.
What Happened to McDonald’s Espresso Machines?
On Tuesday, The Wall Street Journal reported that Melitta, the manufacturer of the CT8 espresso machines, identified a faulty component in two of its units. The defect could cause steam to forcefully escape, potentially breaking the machine and posing safety risks.
In response, Melitta instructed McDonald’s to immediately stop using the machines for up to three weeks while they investigate the root cause and provide a solution.
A spokesperson for Melitta stated:
“Our intent is to determine the root cause and provide a remediation plan and remedies.”
How Does This Affect Customers?
This issue has led to espresso-based drinks, including lattes, mochas, and cappuccinos, being temporarily unavailable at select McDonald’s locations. However, hot and iced brewed coffee remain unaffected, so customers can still get their caffeine fix from other menu options.
The exact number of affected locations has not been disclosed, but reports suggest a widespread impact:
- Chicago: Espresso drinks were unavailable at some locations as of November 19.
- Louisville, Kentucky: Nation’s Restaurant News confirmed disruptions in this market.
- Other major cities: Reports from CNN indicate outages in Atlanta, Dallas, Pittsburgh, New York, and Tampa.
McDonald’s Coffee Business Stays Resilient
Despite the espresso machine setback, McDonald’s continues to push forward with its coffee offerings. The chain sells nearly eight million cups of coffee per day and recently introduced a new seasonal drink: the Dulce de Leche Frappé.
This blended beverage, launched in late October, is a decadent treat featuring:
- A caramel frappé base with a “hint” of coffee
- Dulce de leche syrup
- Whipped cream and crunchy caramel topping
At 540 calories per small serving, the Dulce de Leche Frappé is a rich alternative for those missing their espresso favorites. However, this drink does not contain espresso and is only available for a limited time while supplies last.
McDonald’s Holiday Cheer: Limited-Edition Cups and Digital Collectibles
In the midst of these espresso woes, McDonald’s is spreading holiday joy through its “GM Spread Joy” campaign, a collaboration with the entertainment company Doodles.
Customers who purchase McCafé coffee in the special holiday cups can access exclusive digital collectibles, adding a festive touch to their coffee experience.
What’s Next?
While Melitta works on resolving the issue, McDonald’s espresso machines are expected to remain out of service for several weeks. In the meantime, customers can enjoy other McCafé options or indulge in limited-time treats like the Dulce de Leche Frappé.
As McDonald’s aims to strengthen its coffee business and meet customer demands, addressing this technical hiccup will be a top priority. Hopefully, espresso-based drinks will make their return soon, ensuring customers can enjoy the full McCafé menu once again.
Conclusion
The temporary removal of espresso-based drinks from McDonald’s menus is a minor inconvenience for fans of lattes and mochas, but it’s reassuring to know that safety is the priority.
With other coffee options still available, the introduction of new beverages like the Dulce de Leche Frappé, and a festive holiday campaign underway, McDonald’s is doing its best to keep customers happy during this brief disruption.
FAQs
1. Why are espresso-based drinks unavailable at some McDonald’s locations?
A defect in the Melitta CT8 espresso machines caused steam to escape forcefully, prompting safety concerns. McDonald’s has temporarily decommissioned these machines while the manufacturer investigates.
2. Are all McDonald’s locations affected?
Not all locations are impacted, but reports indicate outages in cities like Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Pittsburgh, New York, and Tampa.
3. Can I still order coffee at McDonald’s?
Yes, brewed coffee (hot and iced) is still available at all locations, along with other McCafé beverages that don’t require espresso machines.
4. How long will it take to fix the espresso machines?
Melitta estimates that it could take up to three weeks to determine the root cause of the defect and implement a solution.
5. What other new drinks can I try at McDonald’s?
The Dulce de Leche Frappé, a caramel-based blended beverage with a hint of coffee, is currently available for a limited time. This seasonal drink is a great alternative for those missing their usual espresso treats.