McDonald’s patrons are expressing frustration following the announcement of a significant alteration to its loyalty program. The fast-food giant is set to raise the point requirement for earning free food through the MyMcDonald’s Rewards program. Currently, customers need 5,500 points to redeem items like a Big Mac, Double Fillet of Fish, Double Sausage and Egg McMuffin, and Nine Chicken Nuggets.
Starting March 17, the redemption threshold will increase to 6,500 points for these items. Customers earn 100 points for every £1 spent at McDonald’s. Presently, 1,500 points are required for items such as a Medium Coffee or Small Fries, but this will rise to 2,000 points.
Moreover, the points needed for items like a regular McFlurry or an Apple Pie will climb from 2,500 points to 3,500. For a Double Cheeseburger or a McChicken sandwich, customers will now need 5,000 points, up from 4,000 points.
In response to the changes, one disgruntled fan shared, “Not at all happy,” while another inquired about the start date to plan their redemptions. A spokesperson from McDonald’s explained to The Sun that the adjustments were made to align with escalating food and supply costs. They highlighted the introduction of new redemption options like Chicken Selects, Cheese sides, and the new Sausage Sandwich to offer more choices to customers.
These changes come alongside the launch of McDonald’s new menu, featuring unique offerings like the Surf N’ Turf burger with two beef patties, a crispy white fish fillet patty, cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, and ketchup. Another addition is the Chicken Cheeseburger, comprising a beef patty, a crispy coated chicken patty, cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, and ketchup.
The new menu also includes the Espresso Milkshake, a thick vanilla milkshake served with a shot of espresso, and the Chilli Cheese Bites accompanied by a tangy tomato sauce.