Summarize Written Text (Core)

Summarize the passage in 25-50 words.

Starting this month, ShopWell's loyalty program is changing how points are earned and redeemed. Members will now earn 2 points for every dollar spent, up from 1.5, but points will expire after 18 months instead of staying active indefinitely. Customers can check their balance through the store app or by asking a cashier at checkout. Redemption has also changed: instead of a fixed 100-point-equals-one-dollar rate, points can now be used for specific rewards, such as 500 points for a free coffee or 2,000 points for a $15 discount voucher. Members who had points close to expiring under the old rules will have those points automatically extended by six months as a one-time courtesy. Store staff have been trained to explain the new system to confused shoppers, and printed guides are available near the checkout counters. The company says the changes are meant to reward frequent shoppers more generously while encouraging members to redeem points sooner rather than letting them pile up unused. Customers who dislike the changes can still opt out of the loyalty program entirely by contacting customer service, though they will forfeit any remaining points if they do so.