McDonald’s customers are expressing frustration following the announcement of changes to the fast-food giant’s loyalty program. Starting from March 17, the number of points required to redeem free items through MyMcDonald’s Rewards will increase. 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, but this will rise to 6,500 points.
Additionally, the points needed for other items such as a Medium Coffee or Small Fries will increase from 1,500 to 2,000 points. Moreover, the threshold for items like a regular McFlurry or an Apple Pie will go up from 2,500 points to 3,500 points, and to claim a Double Cheeseburger or a McChicken sandwich, customers will need 5,000 points instead of 4,000 points.
In response to the discontent expressed on social media, a McDonald’s spokesperson attributed the changes to the loyalty scheme to the escalating costs of food and supplies. They highlighted that while the points requirement has been adjusted due to these rising costs, the menu now includes new options like Chicken Selects, Cheese sides, and a Sausage Sandwich to provide more choices for customers.
Furthermore, McDonald’s introduced new items on its menu, including the Surf N’ Turf burger, consisting of two beef patties, a crispy white fish fillet patty, cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, and ketchup. The menu also features the Chicken Cheeseburger, with a beef patty, a crispy coated chicken patty, cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, and ketchup. Customers can also enjoy the new Espresso Milkshake and Chilli Cheese Bites served with a tangy tomato sauce.