McDonald’s customers are expressing frustration following the announcement of adjustments to the MyMcDonald’s Rewards program. The fast-food giant is set to raise the points requirement for redeeming free items, with the changes taking effect on March 17.

Currently, customers need 5,500 points to claim popular menu items like the Big Mac, Double Fillet of Fish, Double Sausage and Egg McMuffin, and Nine Chicken Nuggets. However, the threshold will increase to 6,500 points per item. Customers earn 100 points for every £1 spent at McDonald’s.

Points needed for items such as a Medium Coffee or Small Fries will also see an increase from 1,500 to 2,000 points. Moreover, the points required for a regular McFlurry or an Apple Pie will rise from 2,500 to 3,500 points, while a Double Cheeseburger or a McChicken sandwich will now cost 5,000 points, up from 4,000 points.

McDonald’s spokesperson explained that the adjustments in the loyalty scheme are a response to the escalating food and supply costs. Despite the point increases, the company is introducing new redemption options, including Chicken Selects, Cheese sides, and the new Sausage Sandwich, to enhance customer choices.

The loyalty scheme changes coincide with the launch of McDonald’s latest menu additions in the UK, which include the Surf N’ Turf burger featuring two beef patties, a crispy white fish fillet patty, cheese, onions, pickles, mustard, and ketchup. Additionally, the new Chicken Cheeseburger, Espresso Milkshake, and Chilli Cheese Bites offer customers a range of exciting options.

Customers have taken to social media to express their discontent with the loyalty scheme modifications, with some voicing their disappointment and eagerness to utilize their existing points before the changes take effect.