American Express Changes the Face of Rewards in Canada Allowing Cardmembers to Use Points for Any Purchase using the Amex App

New capability is the latest offering from the company aimed at streamlining customers' lives

TORONTO, Sept. 9, 2016 /CNW/ - American Express Canada today announces the launch of Use Points for Purchases, a dynamic new capability that allows eligible Cardmembers to use Membership Rewards points towards a wide range of eligible everyday purchases charged to their Card. Eligible Cardmembers enrolled in the Membership Rewards program can access and redeem against eligible spending on purchases they love such as retail, dining and entertainment straight from the Amex App with a few easy taps.

"We're excited to be able to offer our Cardmembers the ultimate flexibility when it comes to redeeming their points," says Megan McKee, Vice President of Consumer Card Marketing, at American Express Canada. "By using their points towards eligible purchases, eligible Cardmembers can use their Membership Rewards Points simply and conveniently through their Amex App. Whether it's new furniture for the home, or back to school shopping or travel, Cardmembers have more choice than ever before when it comes to redemption."

This new capability comes at a time when American Express is especially focused on streamlining Cardmembers' lives to make their every day as seamless as possible. The company, which has always been known for its exceptional service, is focusing its attention on taking that service to another level and reaching its mobile-first customers. This includes an increased focus on the Amex App (with revamped, new features, like Use Points for Purchases), providing more options to pay with an American Express Card using a mobile device, and giving Cardmembers first access to presales and exclusive offers through entertainment email alerts.

"We know that consumers are increasingly looking for ways to simplify their busy lives," added McKee. "With a focus on mobile-first, we're evolving our commitment to providing exceptional service, and making the benefits of Cardmembership even more relevant in today's world."

Areas American Express is innovating for the mobile-first consumer:

• Mobile fraud email alerts to ensure Cardmembers can shop confidently, from anywhere they are in the world
• Review recent transactions including pending charges, bill payment reminders and instant updates on the revamped Amex App to help Cardmembers keep track of their accounts on to go
• Mobile entertainment email alerts to ensure Cardmembers are first to hear of any Front Of The Line presales or Amex Invites offers and experiences
• In-app referral capabilities so Cardmembers can easily refer friends to earn more of the rewards they love

To Use Points for Purchases, eligible Cardmembers login to their account, either through the mobile app or online at www.americanexpress.ca, and simply click to view recent charges. To select eligible transactions, they simply click "use points for purchases." Once Membership Rewards points are used, Cardmembers will get a credit applied to their account within 48 hours. For more information about Use Points for Purchases, visit: https://catalogue.membershiprewards.ca/viewAwardDetail.mtw?productId=1669890

For more information about the app, visit: https://www.americanexpress.com/ca/en/content/mobile-app/

About American Express in Canada

American Express in Canada operates as Amex Bank of Canada and Amex Canada Inc. Both are wholly owned subsidiaries of the New York based American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc., the largest operating unit of the American Express Company. Amex Bank of Canada is the issuer of American Express charge and credit cards, with outstanding products like The SimplyCash ™ Card from American Express ©, The American Express® Gold Rewards Card, and the American Express® AeroplanPlus® Gold Card. American Express opened its first offices in Toronto and Hamilton in 1853. For more information, visit AmericanExpress.ca or connect with us at Facebook.com/AmericanExpressCanada and YouTube.com/AmericanExpressCAD

SOURCE American Express Canada

Nicola McGroarty, On behalf of American Express Canada, [email protected], 416-644-2274