OAK BROOK, Ill. — McDonald's is scrapping plans to offer free samples its new smoothies because it's worried it would run out of the fruit drinks.
In a statement late Thursday, the fast-food chain's chief marketing officer called the fruit-flavored yogurt drinks "an absolute hit," with "unprecedented demand."
Sales of the drinks officially began this week, but were already being sold in certain parts of the country. The company, based in suburban Chicago, had planned to offer free samples from July 22 through July 24.
The smoothies are the latest offering from the company's revamped McCafe drink line. The effort includes espresso drinks and lattes and icy coffee drinks.
McDonald's is debating whether to reschedule the event.