What’s All the Fizz About? A Teaching Case Study on the Use of Coca-Cola® Freestyle® Machines in Quick-Service Restaurants

Abstract

This case focuses on the issues surrounding whether the Coca-Cola® Freestyle® machine should be installed at specific quick-service restaurants (QSR). The case explores how to quantify the service performance of the Freestyle® compared to traditional fountain drink dispensers. Also, the nature of specific QSR processes (ordering, food preparation and delivery) could impact whether a Freestyle® is appropriate. The case is designed for use in upper-division undergraduate courses in operations, consumer behavior and strategy. As part of the case, a link to a simulation has been provide: HERE or visit https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B9gWLxcVUszrYmFjd3JQTW9tRFU. Students will use the simulation to answer case questions