Steak ‘n Shake allegedly installs anti-theft QR readers for their fountain soda machines — sparking calls for boycott

Your next refill may come with an extra step.

Steak ‘n Shake customers are spotting QR codes at the soda machines. In a video reshared on X by @McFranchisee — the original TikTok was posted by @scottiferr — the video shows a customer pushing the dispenser and nothing coming out.

That is until they scan a QR code near the machine. Once scanned, the diner pushes the soda dispensers to a flow of sugary goodness. 

The poster scanning their QR code to use the soda machine @Scottiferr/TikTok

While the original TikTok was dropped back in 2024, Steak ‘n Shake recently commented on the post from @McFranchisee confirming the controversial tech, and throwing some snarky shade to its rivals.

“We have a system that limits each regular beverage to a very generous 40-ounce serving (excluding ice) so we can keep prices affordable for our loyal guests and maintain self-service refills,” the company said on X.

“Many of our competitors have gotten rid of self-serve soda fountains and free refills. Not us. You are welcome!” Steak ‘n Shake added.

The Post reached out to Steak ‘n Shake to find out how many locations have implemented the QR scanners and when but has not heard back.

@McFranchisee said in their post that the move happened during remodels as a way to check a customer’s proof of purchase causing some diners to boycott as each time they want a drink, they must scan their receipt.

The poster pushing the dispenser and no soda coming out @Scottiferr/TikTok

“I think it’s a smart move that helps keep people honest. The entitlement is wild, people are genuinely mad about scanning a code for a free refill? Go to almost any other country where free refills barely exist (if at all) and they’d be begging for this system,” they wrote on X.

According to The Big Lead, the change has been slowly rolling out in locations since the pandemic as germ-prevention turned into theft-prevention. The article claims it’s all because the cost of a medium fountain soda.

Steak ‘n Shake claims the move is for keeping costs low as the chain has to account for the syrup plus carbonated water and CO2. The Big Lead revealed that sodas cost the all-American fast food chain roughly 20 cents.

Typically, fast food joints will then mark up the soda price anywhere between 800% and 1,100% as its fountain drinks are one of the most profitable menu items. And while it may be convenient for the chain, customers fear it’s just another way for companies to get a quick cash grab.

One user wrote on X, “I understand that you think this is a good model to go by but it’s not. The syrup boxes, even combined, don’t even count for a third of food costs. Spin it any way you want, that’s not the reason you’re doing it.”

“It’s a sad world when you have to lock up the most profitable item you sell. The cup costs more than the soda syrup that makes the drink,” another added.

Not all customers are upset over the soda switch. Many commenters flooded the post saying the codes were a breeze.

“Land of the entitled. That’s where we live. Scanning a code is seriously a breeze. The fact that people complain is mind blowing to me,” a post read.

Another wrote, “I’ve seen this system used as some universities food service areas for years. It’s not a big deal unless you’re trying to fill up multiple cups to take home.”