McDonald’s Just Started Selling Energy Drinks. How to Play MCD Stock Here.

McDonald’s (MCD) just entered the energy-drink market, but the bigger question for investors is whether the move can help revive the stock after a difficult year. The company began selling its Red Bull Dragonberry Energizer across U.S. restaurants on Aug. 17, marking McDonald’s first entry into energy drinks.

The timing is interesting because McDonald’s recently delivered a mixed second-quarter report. Adjusted earnings came in at $3.38 per share, beating the $3.32 consensus estimate, while revenue of roughly $7.1 billion fell slightly short of the $7.14 billion estimate.

That makes the new drink more than just another menu item. Investors are looking for ways McDonald’s can increase customer visits, improve sales, and capture spending from younger consumers.

MCD Stock Has Struggled This Year

McDonald’s stock has been under pressure even as the broader market has remained strong. Shares of MCD have fallen over 11% so far in 2026.

This weakness shows concerns about slower comparable-store sales, consumer pressure, and execution problems in the U.S. In the second quarter, U.S. comparable sales increased only 0.8%, while global comparable sales rose 1.3%. Consolidated revenue increased 4%, and systemwide sales climbed 5% to $37 billion. 

The energy drink launch could, therefore, give McDonald’s another way to generate traffic. The company is targeting consumers who may visit restaurants specifically for beverages, potentially creating additional purchases alongside food.

McDonald's Valuation Is Not Cheap

Despite the decline, investors should not assume McDonald’s has become a bargain. The company has a market capitalization of roughly $189 billion, while its trailing price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is about 22.

Those numbers show why MCD stock needs earnings growth to justify a sustained rebound. McDonald’s is not being valued like a struggling restaurant chain. Investors are still paying a premium for its powerful brand, franchise-heavy model, global scale, and strong cash generation.

That creates both an opportunity and a risk. If beverage sales, loyalty engagement, and value promotions help accelerate comparable-store sales, the stock could regain some of the ground lost from its 52-week high. But if U.S. traffic remains weak, a roughly 21-times forward earnings multiple leaves less room for disappointment.

The Energy Drink Is Bigger Than One New Menu Item

McDonald’s is using Red Bull to enter a category that has become increasingly popular with younger consumers. The Dragonberry Energizer combines Red Bull with blue raspberry flavor and dragon fruit and is available in regular and zero-sugar versions. 

The important point for MCD stock is not necessarily how much this single drink generates. Instead, investors should watch whether McDonald’s can turn beverages into a larger, higher-frequency part of its business.

The company has already been expanding its beverage strategy with crafted sodas, Refreshers, and McCafé offerings. It also recently launched new seasonal beverages, including its Caramel Apple Pie lineup. 

McDonald’s is also leaning heavily on its loyalty program. During the second quarter, sales to loyalty members across 70 markets rose more than 20% over the trailing 12 months to $40 billion, while 90-day active loyalty users increased 13% to nearly 220 million. 

What Do Analysts Think About MCD Stock?

Wall Street remains generally constructive, although several analysts have recently reduced their targets. The overall consensus is “Buy,” with 19 analysts recommending “Buy,” 14 "Hold" ratings, and one “Sell.” The average 12-month price target is at $318.95, implying roughly 15% upside from recent levels. 

UBS has a $340 target and “Buy” rating, while BTIG has a $350 target. Tigress Financial is even more bullish with a $390 target. At the other end, Mizuho has a $290 “Hold” rating, and RBC Capital has a $305 “Hold” rating. 

For MCD stock, the energy drink launch is unlikely to transform the company overnight. But it gives McDonald’s another tool to increase beverage sales, attract younger customers, and improve restaurant traffic. If management can combine that strategy with stronger U.S. execution and continued loyalty growth, the current weakness could eventually look like an opportunity.