Futuristic, 100-flavor Coke dispenser tested

By Jenifer Goodwin
Union-Tribune Staff Writer
2:00 a.m. July 22, 2009

Those ubiquitous soft-drink dispensers in fast-food restaurants may soon go the way of the portable CD player.

This summer, Coca-Cola is rolling out a new generation of drink dispensers that let customers use a touch screen to choose from more than 100 varieties instead of the usual six or so.

If you've ever had a hankering to try Orange Coke, Peach Fanta or Strawberry Sprite β€” flavors that have never before been sold in the United States β€” now's your chance.

The new machines are being test-marketed in San Diego and Atlanta, Coca-Cola's corporate headquarters.

Officially called the Coca-Cola Freestyle, the machines are being installed in 10 Jack in the Box restaurants along state Route 78 in north San Diego County.

Beginning in August, the machines will also appear in 10 other restaurants throughout the county, including some El Pollo Loco, Pei Wei Asian Diner, Subway, Carl's Jr. and Noodles & Co. locations.

β€œIt's like the iPod of drink machines,β€