The reason was so that the guarantee on the cooking vessels wouldn't be voided.
Penny-wise, pound-foolish, their patrons noticed, and became former patrons.
The chain has gone back to using salted water.
What a bad decision on their part. I always salt my pasta water, it tastes bland if you don’t.
I see a lot of businesses making some pretty bad decisions lately. Big businesses that should know better. They should be offering products people want/need at affordable prices. Compete for our business and don’t think you are entitled to our money.