QSR players aim to drink in higher sales with new kinds of beverages

The lucrative beverage component of the quick-service restaurant business is taking a big leap forward as McDonald’s and other traditional segment players try to siphon off market share from leading coffeehouse chains by offering new varieties of teas, coffees and bottled drinks.

McDonald’s, now an espresso source like Starbucks, has ramped up its McCafe specialty coffee test following a 15-percent