Each program has it's benefits and drawbacks. There are plenty of reasons why M&M is better than UA, just as there are some great reasons why UA is better than M&M.

Many folks who haven't been guided to the wisdom of FT or really don't check details more carefully, which could even be some very frequent flyers who just don't have the time to bother, could end up lucking out on the wrong program to suit their needs.

M&M - yes awards are more expensive, but did you know if you qualify as a Senator you'll get 25% bonus on all *A flights on the base mileage? Did you know in Biz/First you could earn a 200% or 300% bonus? rather than a meagre 25% or 50% bonus but more on UA metal... handy if you don't fly UA that often... Did you know you can get 50% off priced companion awards on LH? That LH also have "Fly Smart" awards which can be even cheaper than UA's awards...

Also, until recently tiered LH SEN's could get lounge access to UA's RCC's in north america on domestic flights, which saved you having to pay for UA RCC membership... each program in the alliance has it's own benefits and drawbacks, it's really to your own personal situation and needs that suit you. Both programs are amognst the better *A programs out there ...