GoKawiilFast-food chains overhaul loyalty programs, cutting reward value for members
Major chains including McDonald's, Dunkin' and Starbucks have been revising their loyalty programs in ways that reduce the value customers can extract from accumulated points, according to reporting on what is being called a 'great rewards overhaul' in 2026. One example cited involves a Dunkin' customer who let points accumulate for five years without redeeming them, illustrating how program structures can leave long-term users holding devalued rewards.