CosMc's drive-thru restaurant sign in Bolingbrook, Illinois. (Getty Images)
McDonald’s has decided to close its experimental CosMc’s beverage chain, ending the project in less than two years. The company confirmed the decision on Friday, May 23, 2025. All five CosMc’s pilot locations will shut down on a “rolling basis,” with the brand’s mobile app and loyalty program ending in late June.
The End of the CosMc’s Experience
A message posted on the CosMc’s website informed users that the CosMc’s Club, mobile app, and web ordering would cease on June 23, 2025. Customers are urged to redeem all earned points and rewards before that date. Any unused rewards will be forfeited after the shutdown, as stated in the terms and conditions.
This closure marks the end of a bold beverage-focused experiment by the global fast-food giant.
A Short-Lived Vision in Beverages
The first CosMc’s location opened in December 2023 in Illinois. Soon after, four more locations were launched — all in Texas, including Fort Worth, Allen, and San Antonio.
CosMc’s aimed to tap into the growing beverage trend with a unique drink menu. Signature items included the French Toast Galaxy Latte, Pistachio Swirl Shaken Espresso, and Island Pick-Me-Up Punch. The cafe also served teas, cold brews, and blended drinks, with customizable add-ons like boba pearls, flavored syrups, and vitamin boosts.
Food with a Twist
Beyond drinks, CosMc’s offered a light food menu. Customers could order breakfast sandwiches, pretzel bites, soft serve, and a few classic McDonald’s items. The menu was designed to complement the drink options and offer quick bites for customers on the go.
What’s Next for McDonald’s?
Despite the closures, McDonald’s views the CosMc’s experiment as valuable. According to a company statement, the brand gained key insights into consumer preferences and operational processes.
These learnings will influence a new beverage test at traditional McDonald’s locations in the U.S., although specific items from CosMc’s weren’t named.
The company stated, “CosMc’s allowed us to test bold flavors, new technologies, and different formats — without disrupting the core McDonald’s experience.”
Out-of-This-World Branding
The CosMc’s concept leaned heavily on a celestial theme. Locations were decorated in blue and yellow, while staff wore uniforms featuring starry and space-themed designs. This "otherworldly" branding was meant to differentiate the chain from McDonald’s traditional offerings.
At the time of its first launch, McDonald’s had clearly stated that CosMc’s was a limited-time test. The closure seems to confirm that the company always intended to evaluate its potential rather than expand it widely.
Why CosMc’s Couldn’t Go the Distance
CosMc’s entered a competitive space, aiming to rival established beverage brands like Starbucks and Dunkin’. While the concept sparked curiosity, it struggled to build a loyal customer base. The niche appeal, coupled with limited locations and unfamiliar branding, may have contributed to its early exit.
However, the effort wasn’t in vain. McDonald’s now plans to integrate its beverage innovations into upcoming menu experiments, potentially bringing fan favorites from CosMc’s to a wider audience.
Final Orders: CosMc’s Closes in June
For now, CosMc’s fans have until June 23, 2025, to place their final mobile orders and use any remaining loyalty rewards. The closure serves as a reminder that even giants like McDonald’s need to test, learn, and adapt in the fast-changing food and beverage market.
While CosMc’s may be fading out, its influence could soon show up at a McDonald’s near you — one drink at a time.
