New frosted drinks from Chick-fil-A, plus retro merchandise collection, spark debate

Chick-fil-A unveiled brand-new drinks and “retro-inspired” merchandise on Monday, sparking buzz — and debate — among fans and employees.

In a Jan. 5 news release, the Atlanta-based chain announced it would begin offering frosted sodas and floats on its permanent menu.

The drinks are “hand-spun with Icedream [Chick-fil-A’s vanilla soft serve] and guests’ choice of fountain beverage for a smooth, creamy treat with a retro twist,” the company said. 

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The brand is offering three core flavors: Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper and Sprite, with additional options including Fanta, Powerade, Hi-C and Barq’s Root Beer.

In addition to the frosted drinks, Chick-fil-A is also inviting fans to participate in its Golden Fan Cup sweepstakes.

Coca-Cola, Dr. Pepper and Sprite are among the core flavors offered in Chick-fil-A’s new frosted drinks. (Chick-fil-A)

The fast-food chain is selling four “retro-inspired” cup designs inspired by past Chick-fil-A looks. Customers can buy the cups for $3.99.

A total of 3,000 Gold Fan Cups are available — and if a customer purchases a classic cup and receives a Gold Fan Cup, the person can receive free Chick-fil-A food for a year.

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The celebrations are “nods to Chick-fil-A’s 80-year heritage,” said the press release. 

“This year marks more than an anniversary — it’s a celebration of the memories, meals and meaningful moments that have brought people together at Chick-fil-A for generations,” Khalilah Cooper, vice president of brand strategy, advertising and media at Chick-fil-A, said in a statement. 

The chain also launched a Golden Fan Cup sweepstakes alongside the rollout of its new frosted drinks. (Chick-fil-A)

In a post on a Reddit forum dedicated to Chick-fil-A, users shared reactions to the frosted sodas ahead of the rollout.

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“Frosted Dr. Pepper sounds fantastic,” one person wrote.

“Just give us lower prices.”

“The Hi-C one sounds promising,” another chimed in.

Customers shared thoughts about Chick-fil-A’s newest menu item additions. (Robert Nickelsberg/Getty Images)

“These were tested in [Southern California] and they were pretty good. Not too expensive from what I recall too,” a third user said.

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Still, despite the buzz, one customer was unmoved by the new packaging.

“I don’t care [about] the packaging. Just give us lower prices,” the Redditor wrote.

The throwback packaging and cups are “nods to Chick-fil-A’s 80-year heritage,” said the company.  (Chick-fil-A)

Another Redditor added, “It’s not that bad. But when you can spend the same amount going to a fast-casual restaurant and get much better food, then the choice is obvious.”

Likewise, some people claiming to be Chick-fil-A workers expressed reservations.

“Yay, now we can make drinks and desserts even more complicated!” an employee said.

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“These are so messy to make,” another wrote.

Fox News Digital reached out to Chick-fil-A for additional comment.