Chipotle Changed Its Rewards And You Probably Didn’t Even Notice
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Chipotle Changed Its Rewards : If you frequent the Chipotle line, you’re definitely enrolled in the restaurant’s rewards program. Being a devoted rewards member has a lot of benefits, including member-only specials, promotions, and, in certain cases, free food.
According to Chipotle’s website, over 28 million people have participated in Chipotle’s rewards program since its introduction in March 2019.
Offering free chips and guacamole with their first purchase as a member, surprise birthday prizes, and points for every dollar spent can be pretty attractive – and it’s one of the most generous rewards programs available.
But not everything that is excellent can last. In a recent turn of events, Chipotle has had to raise the cost of its Menu items over the last year for a variety of reasons. As a result, its well-known rewards program has suffered a setback.
You’ll Need More Rewards Point To Get Your Free Burrito
We have some bad news for Chipotle Rewards members. You may have been pleased with the restaurant chain’s rewards program in the past, but that has all changed. The corporation has changed its reward point terms without making any announcements.
According to The Takeout, the company is preserving its earned 10 points for every $1 spent system, but it has secretly upped the number of points required to cash in for a free entrée.
Chipotle previously enabled members to redeem 1,400 points, or $140 spent at any of its stores, for a free entrée, which could include a burrito, bowl, salad, or taco order (according to Business Insider).
Chipotle has now raised the redemption barrier to 1,625 points, requiring customers to spend a whopping $162.50 to win a free dinner. That’s a significant rise – roughly a 16% increase.
Chipotle claims that it has to increase the number of rewards points due to inflation.
“To account for the additional cost of our real ingredients, we’ve marginally increased point values for menu items in the Chipotle Rewards Exchange,” according to a Chipotle spokeswoman (via The Takeout).
It’s a difficult time to be a frequent Chipotle diner, as the company has raised prices on all of its menu items three times this year, including two separate 4% increases.
The Old vs. New Chipotle Rewards Program
Let’s start with a brief comparison of the old and new Chipotle rewards program to see how they differ.
Old Chipotle Rewards Program
- Earned 10 points for every $1 spent
- 1,250 points earned equaled a free entrée
- Redeemed rewards included free entrées, sides, and drinks
New Chipotle Rewards Program
- Earn 15 points for every $1 spent
- 1,250 points earned equaled $10 in rewards
- Redeemed rewards can now include guacamole, chips and salsa, and other add-ons
Benefits of the New Chipotle Rewards Program
Now that you know the basics of the updated rewards program let’s dive into the advantages of the new system.
More Points for Every Dollar Spent
Under the new rewards program, you’ll earn 50% more points per dollar spent, meaning you’ll reach your rewards faster.
More Redemption Options
The updated rewards program offers more redemption options than the old system, which only allowed free entrees, sides, and drinks. With the new program, you can now use your rewards for guacamole, chips and salsa, or any menu item you like.
More Flexibility with Rewards
The old rewards program required 1,250 points to earn a free entrée, which could limit your options. However, the new system allows you to use your rewards for any menu item, which means you can enjoy your favorite meal and use your rewards for a side or beverage.
Faster Reward Redemption
Since the new rewards program requires fewer points for redemption, you can now use your rewards faster than before. You no longer have to wait until you earn 1,250 points to get a free item, and you can use your rewards whenever you want, without worrying about expiration dates.
FAQ’s About Chipotle’s Updated Rewards Program
To sign up for Chipotle’s rewards program, you can either download the Chipotle app or create an account on their website. Once you have created an account, you will be automatically enrolled in the rewards program.
The benefits of Chipotle’s rewards program include earning points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for free food and other rewards. Additionally, members of the program will receive exclusive offers and promotions throughout the year.
To earn points with Chipotle’s rewards program, simply make a purchase at any Chipotle location and provide your rewards account information at checkout. You will earn points based on the dollar amount of your purchase.
To redeem your rewards with Chipotle’s rewards program, simply log into your account on the Chipotle app or website and select the reward you would like to redeem. Present the reward at checkout to claim your free food or other reward.
The rewards available through Chipotle’s rewards program vary based on the number of points you have earned. Rewards may include free entrees, drinks, sides, and more.
Yes, points earned through Chipotle’s rewards program expire after 12 months of account inactivity. To keep your points active, simply make a purchase at Chipotle every 12 months.
Yes, you can use your rewards at any Chipotle location in the United States.
No, there are no fees associated with Chipotle’s rewards program. It is completely free to join and participate in the program.