American fast-food giant Chick-fil-A is toasting its 80th anniversary with a blast from the past, introducing a new line of retro-inspired beverages to its menu. The headline additions are Frosted Sodas and Floats, which combine the chain's signature Icedream soft-serve with popular fizzy drinks.
A Sweet Nod to Eight Decades
The launch is part of a broader celebration of the brand's 80-year legacy. Khalilah Cooper, Chick-fil-A's vice president of brand strategy, advertising and media, stated that this year is more than an anniversary; it's a celebration of the memories and meals that have brought people together for generations. She promised menu items and experiences that are fresh and exciting while staying true to the chain's reputation for quality and hospitality.
The new Frosted Soda is a blended treat, while the Float features soda and Icedream layered together to create what the company describes as a 'fizzy, foamy treat that’s perfect for sipping or scooping'. Core soda flavours for mixing include Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper, and Sprite, with additional options like Fanta, Powerade, Hi-C, Barq’s Root Beer, and diet variants.
Collectible Cups and Fan Reactions
Alongside the drinks, Chick-fil-A is rolling out a series of four retro-inspired Classic Cups, with new designs released every few weeks. A special Golden Fan Cup will also be available, with 3,000 winners receiving free Chick-fil-A for a year, while supplies last.
Early reactions from customers have been mixed. Some who tried test versions in Southern California praised the taste and value, with one fan noting the Hi-C option sounded promising. However, others were less impressed, questioning the timing during winter and one Reddit user expressing disappointment after trying the Dr Pepper version.
A Push After Losing the Top Spot
The menu innovation comes as Chick-fil-A seeks to regain momentum after being knocked off the top spot as America's favourite fast-food chain. In August, it was announced that the title now belongs to Del Taco for the second consecutive year, despite operating only 600 restaurants nationwide. Chick-fil-A slipped to fourth place, partly due to backlash over a recipe change to its waffle fries.
This beverage-focused move aligns with the chain's broader strategy, having opened its first drinks-centric café, Daybright, in the Greater Atlanta area in September through its subsidiary Red Wagon. As Chick-fil-A enters its ninth decade, these frothy, retro treats represent both a look back at its history and a calculated step to win back customer favour.
