Canada Introduces New Rewards Program to Replace Air Miles

Rowan Ashford

Published: January 27, 2026 7:35 PM ET

Canada Introduces New Rewards Program to Replace Air Miles

Canadians will soon transition from Air Miles to a newly introduced rewards program called Blue Rewards, backed by BMO Financial Group. The announcement was made on Monday, detailing that the Blue Rewards program aims to provide a straightforward and adaptable method for members to earn and redeem rewards. The launch is set for this summer, and it will be managed by a BMO subsidiary.

Blue Rewards Program Features

Blue Rewards promises several enhancements for its millions of anticipated users. Highlighted features include:

Greater flexibility in redemption.
More extensive benefits and partnerships.
An upgraded digital experience for earning and redeeming rewards.

Shawn Stewart, president of Blue Rewards, expressed enthusiasm about aligning the loyalty program with the daily lives of Canadians. He emphasized the program’s focus on providing increased value through diverse earning and redemption opportunities.

Accessing Blue Rewards

The rewards program will be available through a dedicated Blue Rewards app. Existing BMO clients can access it seamlessly alongside their current mobile and online banking platforms.

Transitioning from Air Miles

Current Air Miles collectors will not lose their points during this transition. Effective summer 2026, Air Miles will automatically convert to Blue Points at an equivalent value. Cardholders of BMO Air Miles credit and debit cards can continue using their cards without interruption, with further program details to be communicated soon.

How Blue Rewards Works

Members will earn a single type of reward point known as Blue Points. The program features a simplified travel redemption option powered by Expedia Group, covering flights, hotels, and car rentals. Participants can earn rewards at over 400 brands, including:

Fairmont Hotels
Porter Airlines
Instacart
Pharmasave

However, it’s important to note that the partnership between Air Miles and Shell Canada will conclude on May 25, 2026, nationwide, and on March 2, 2026, in Alberta. Until then, collectors can continue accumulating Air Miles at Shell locations.

Additional Earning Opportunities

Members of Blue Rewards can also earn points by scanning receipts at grocery retailers and wholesale clubs in Canada. Additionally, BMO Chequing Account holders can choose to earn Blue Points on purchases related to gas, groceries, wholesale items, and electric vehicle charging when using their debit cards.

Moreover, a BMO Blue Rewards credit card will be offered, featuring benefits such as enhanced earning accelerators from participating partners. Credit cardholders can earn Blue Points on all linked BMO credit cards. Those interested can join the pre-launch waitlist for the Blue Rewards credit card, with chances to win prizes like 1 million Blue Points.