McDonald’s patrons are expressing frustration following the fast-food giant’s announcement of a significant alteration to its loyalty program.
Starting March 17, the points required for redeeming free items through MyMcDonald’s Rewards will be raised. Currently, items like a Big Mac, Double Fillet of Fish, Double Sausage and Egg McMuffin, and Nine Chicken Nuggets can be obtained for 5,500 points. However, this will increase to 6,500 points. Customers earn 100 points for every £1 spent at McDonald’s.
For items like a Medium Coffee or Small Fries, the current requirement of 1,500 points will be raised to 2,000 points. Moreover, the points needed for items like a regular McFlurry or an Apple Pie will increase from 2,500 points to 3,500. To obtain a Double Cheeseburger or a McChicken sandwich, customers will now need 5,000 points, up from 4,000 points.
In response to social media discussions, one disgruntled fan stated, “Not at all happy,” while another inquired about the commencement date to redeem their points before the changes take effect.
A McDonald’s spokesperson informed The Sun that the adjustments to the loyalty program are a result of escalating food and supply costs. They mentioned the introduction of new redemption options like Chicken Selects, Cheese sides, and a new Sausage Sandwich to provide more choices for customers.
These modifications come in the wake of McDonald’s unveiling its new menu featuring unique offerings such as the Surf N’ Turf burger, comprising two beef patties, a crispy white fish fillet patty, cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, and ketchup. Additionally, the Chicken Cheeseburger has been introduced, which includes a beef patty, a crispy coated chicken patty, cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, and ketchup. The menu also introduces the Espresso Milkshake, a thick vanilla milkshake served with a shot of espresso, and Chilli Cheese Bites accompanied by a tangy tomato sauce.