Beginning Monday, Kroger shoppers will be able to redeem their fuel rewards at 42 area Shell stations as well as at Kroger stores with gas pumps. The deal between Shell and Kroger substantially expands the loyalty program's reach.

Kroger shoppers who swipe their loyalty card when they shop receive a point for every dollar they spend in stores, and they can earn additional points for actions like filling prescriptions at the stores' pharmacies. When shoppers accumulate 100 points, they are rewarded with a 10-cent discount on a fill-up of up to 35 gallons. However, until now, shoppers have only been able to claim that discount at the five Triangle Kroger locations with gas pumps.

At the 42 participating Triangle-area Shell stations, Kroger rewards members will be able to enter their card number to initiate the redemption process. A company spokesman said the website www.shell.us/kroger is being updated and will reflect the new locations by Monday when the program launches.