Copyright Newsweek
Taco Bell has added a new, limited-edition, specialty drink to its menu—the Strawberry Vanilla Cream Soda Freeze—but currently, it’s only available for Taco Bell Rewards members. This comes after the Mexican-themed restaurant chain launched new Orange and Vanilla Cream Soda Freezes last month, and follows a growing trend among fast-food outlets and coffee chains to bring out new, novelty drinks and flavors. Newsweek has reached out to Taco Bell for comment. Why It Matters Taco Bell serves 2 billion customers each year worldwide, and boasts 8,121 locations in the U.S, according to the company's website. California has the most branches, with some 415 venues dotted throughout the golden state. The new addition to Taco Bell's menu follows a long line of other fast-food and drink outlets which have also recently added new, limited-edition beverages to menus in an attempt to increase footfall, appeal to a younger market, and compete in a competitive landscape, traditionally dominated by the likes of Starbucks and Dunkin.’ What to Know According to Taco Bell, the Strawberry Vanilla Cream Soda Freeze is a “frozen slushy drink with a swirl of vanilla crème and strawberry flavor for a creamy carbonated treat” that is available to its Rewards members only. The drink ranges in price from $3.79 for a small, and $3.99 for a medium. Although, if Rewards members buy one during Taco Bell’s “Happier Hour” (which runs from 2–5 p.m. every day), it’ll only cost them $1. The taco giant might hope the new offering will help grow its loyalty program, encourage app engagement and usage, and, as previously announced, help it reach its $5 billion in beverage sales target by 2030. What People Are Saying Taco Bell's Global Chief Food Innovation Officer, Liz Matthews, previously stated: "We're seeing today that people, especially younger consumers, are reaching for refreshing drinks as part of their lifestyle, whether it's for energy or a sweet treat throughout the day. So, we're making big investments to become the ultimate beverage stop where our fans can expect to see the same bold, unexpected creativity in their cups as they do on their plates." What Happens Next The Strawberry Vanilla Cream Soda Freeze’s future likely hinges on its popularity among Taco Bell rewards members. As with other limited-time offerings, strong demand could see the beverage expanded to the general menu or extended beyond its initially announced timeframe.
