TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* CardTD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* CardUp to 160,000 TD Rewards Points + annual fee rebate for the first year

PC Optimum Points: How the Program Works and Maximizing Your Savings

PC Optimum Points: How the Program Works and Maximizing Your Savings
Share

What is the PC Optimum program?

The PC Optimum program offers Canadian consumers a unified platform to earn and redeem PC Optimum points at over 2,500 locations across the country.

With over 15 million active members, this rewards program allows you to save on your everyday purchases at Loblaws, Shoppers Drug Mart, Esso, and several other participating retailers. Members can accumulate points on their purchases and redeem them for discounts of up to several hundred dollars per transaction. For other options, see our selection of the best credit cards in Canada.

PC Optimum Card – How to Get and Activate Your Card

How to activate your PC Optimum card

To start enjoying the program, you must first obtain your Optimum Maxi card or PC Optimum card. Registration is free and can be done in three ways:

  • online on the PC Optimum website,
  • via the PC Optimum mobile app,
  • or directly in-store at one of the participating locations.

Once you have your card, activation is done simply by creating your PC account online with your email address.

How to register my PC Optimum card

Registering your card is essential to access all the program features. Go to the website or download the PC Optimum app, create your account with a valid email address, then enter the unique number of your physical card. This step will allow you to check your balance, access personalized offers, and manage your preferences.

PC Optimum – Program History and Evolution

The strategic merger of 2018

In February 2018, Loblaw Companies Limited merged PC Plus and Shoppers Optimum. This merger created today’s PC Optimum program, allowing members to enjoy the benefits of both previous programs without losing their accumulated points. Shoppers Optimum cardholders were able to automatically transfer their points to the new unified platform.

Acquisition by EQB in 2026

A major change is coming in 2026: EQB, owner of EQ Bank, will acquire PC Financial and become the exclusive financial partner of the program. This transition promises to bring even more benefits and ways to accumulate points for Canadian members.

The benefits of the PC Optimum program

Extensive coverage

The PC Optimum program is overseen by the Loblaws grocery chain and lets you earn points through purchases of President’s Choice-branded products.

PC members can now earn and redeem PC Optimum points at various stores. This includes popular brands such as Real Canadian Superstore, Loblaws, and many other Loblaw-affiliated retailers, as well as Maxi, Provigo, Shoppers Drug Mart, Joe Fresh, Esso and Mobil in Quebec.

A strong membership base

The PC Optimum program has rapidly gained in popularity since its launch. Today, it boasts over 10 million members in Canada, testifying to its relevance and added value for Canadian consumers.

Download my offers with the application

As a loyal buyer, you can access personalized and exclusive offers visible on optimum.ca or the Optimum PC application. To download the application, go to Google Play or Apple.

To sign up and create your account, you will need to provide some personal information, such as an email address and your name. You can link your unique identification number if you already have a card in the store. The app is easy to use, and you can add offers to your favourites. Thanks to the application, you can optimize your savings according to the products you buy.

Earn PC Optimum points

How do I earn PC Optimum points?

The primary way to earn PC Optimum points is to make purchases at participating stores and present your PC Optimum card. Each purchase earns you PC Optimum points, which can be exchanged for rewards. From time to time, special promotions are organized, offering members the chance to earn bonus points. Keep an eye out for these offers to maximize your earnings.

However, we recommend combining your membership in this loyalty program with applying for one of the President’s Choice Financial credit cards. This will help you optimize your spending and quickly multiply your points.

Here are the different ways to accumulate and maximize your PC Optimum points.

Our credit card selection
Credit cardAnnual feeWelcome offer
Annual fee$0Welcome offer
20,000 points
Apply Now
Annual fee$0Welcome offer
20,000 points
Apply Now
Annual fee$0Welcome offer
20,000 points
Apply Now

Shoppers Drug Mart / Pharmaprix

Since the PC Optimum program was originally the Shoppers Optimum program, some of the best ways to earn (and redeem) points are offered through Shoppers Drug Mart/Shoppers Drug Mart.

With your PC Optimum card, you can earn a base rate of 15 points per dollar spent at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix locations across the country.

Promotional events

In addition to the regular PC Optimum earn rate, Shoppers Drug Mart/Shoppers Drug Mart offers promotional deals and special earn events throughout the year, such as the famous 20x the points events.

By timing your major purchases and product stockpiling with these events, you have the opportunity to quickly accumulate a large number of points.

Customized offers

Check the PC Optimum app regularly to stay up to date on PC Optimum program personalized offers that give you bonus points on specific items—or even free items.

Sign up to receive emails/texts

Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix typically offers bonus points if you sign up for promotional emails or text messages and spend a certain amount.

While this is a one-time offer and you must spend money to earn these points, it’s an easy way to increase your account balance.

Discover our best tips to save at Shoppers Drug Mart with the PC Optimum program.

PC Optimum Program – Participating Grocery Stores

You can earn PC Optimum points at the following grocery stores in Canada:

  • Loblaws
  • Provigo
  • Maxi
  • Maxi & Cie
  • No Frills
  • Fortinos
  • Real Canadian Superstore
  • Your Independent Grocer
  • Atlantic Superstore
  • Save Easy
  • Valu-mart
  • Zehrs
  • Independent City Market
  • Extra Foods
  • Bloor Street Market
  • Dominion
  • PC Express (Loblaws’ online grocery delivery service)

While you don’t accumulate points based on amounts spent, you can earn a good number by purchasing specific promotional items in-store, thanks to weekly offers and your personalized offers that you can find in the app. Also see our best credit cards for groceries to maximize your rewards.

If you prefer to shop from home, you can still earn PC Optimum points when you order groceries online through PC Express. In addition, bonus points are often offered if you choose to subscribe to the PC Express Pass.

PC Financial Credit Cards

One of the easiest ways to earn PC Optimum points on all your purchases is to use one of the four available PC Financial credit cards:

As a cardholder, you accumulate points with every use and benefit from a multi-tier earning rate, up to 45 PC Optimum points per dollar spent.

To help you choose the card that best suits your needs and goals, see our guide to the best PC Financial credit cards.

Carte MastercardMD PCMD

La Carte Mastercard PC vous accueille avec un bonus de 20 000 points PC OptimumMC après avoir dépensé 50 $ dans les deux premiers mois, le tout sans frais annuels. C’est une carte d’entrée idéale pour commencer à accumuler des points dans l’écosystème Loblaw.

  • 1 % de remise en points dans les supermarchés de l’enseigne Loblaw, y compris LoblawsMD, No FrillsMD, Real Canadian SuperstoreMD, MaxiMD, et d’autres endroits3.
  • Au moins 3 c  par litre de remises en points sur votre essences aux stations Esso et Mobil
  • 2,5 % de remise en points chez Pharmaprix et Shoppers Drug Mart
  • 1 % de remise en points chez Joe Fresh
  • 1 % de remise en points partout ailleurs

Vous récoltez ainsi entre 1% et 3 % de retour sur vos achats auprès des commerces PC Optimum. Vos points s’échangent ensuite contre des rabais à la caisse ou un crédit de 7 $ par tranche de 10 000 points appliqué directement sur votre solde de carte.

Avec son assurance-achats de 90 jours, sa garantie prolongée et le service Mastercard Global, cette carte offre des protections appréciables pour une carte entièrement gratuite.

Annual fee
$0
Our valuation
$20
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$20Total$20Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
20,000 points
Apply Now

on PC Financial's website

The PC Mastercard offers a 20,000 PC Optimum welcome bonus after you spend $50 in the first two months, all with no annual fee. It’s an ideal entry-level card to start earning points within the Loblaw ecosystem.

  • 1% back in points at Loblaw banner grocery stores, including LoblawsMD, No FrillsMD, Real Canadian SuperstoreMD, MaxiMD, and other locations3.
  • At least 3¢ per litre back in points on fuel at Esso and Mobil stations
  • 2.5% back in points at Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix
  • 1% back in points at Joe Fresh
  • 1% back in points everywhere else

This way, you earn between 1% and 3% back on your purchases at PC Optimum stores. Your points can then be redeemed for discounts at checkout or a $7 credit per 10,000 points applied directly to your card balance.

With its 90-day purchase assurance, extended warranty, and Mastercard Global Service, this card offers valuable protections for a no-annual-fee card.

Annual fee

Primary card$0
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 30xGas & EV
  • 25xPharmacy
  • 10xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$407
2nd Year Value$240

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years

Carte World MastercardMD PCMD

Avec un bonus de bienvenue de 20 000 points PC Optimum après avoir dépensé 50 $ dans les deux premiers mois et aucun frais annuels, la carte World Mastercard PC est une option solide pour les clients réguliers de l’écosystème Loblaw. Voici ce qu’elle vous rapporte :

  • 3,5 % de remise en points chez Pharmaprix et Shoppers Drug Mart
  • Au moins 3 c par litre de remise en points aux stations Esso et Mobil
  • 2 % de remise en points dans les supermarchés de l’enseigne Loblaw, y compris LoblawsMD, No FrillsMD, Real Canadian SuperstoreMD, MaxiMD, et d’autres endroits3.
  • 1 % de remise en points partout ailleurs

Concrètement, cela représente entre 1% et 3,5 % de retour sur vos achats auprès des commerces PC Optimum. Vos points peuvent être échangés contre des rabais à la caisse ou convertis en crédit de 7 $ par tranche de 10 000 points sur votre solde de carte.

La carte comprend également un service de concierge disponible en tout temps, une assurance-achats de 90 jours, une garantie prolongée et le service Mastercard Global en cas d’urgence — le tout sans débourser un sou en frais annuels.

Annual fee
$0
Our valuation
$20
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$20Total$20Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
20,000 points
Apply Now

on PC Financial's website

With a welcome bonus of 20,000 PC Optimum points after spending $50 in the first two months and no annual fee, the PC World Mastercard is a solid option for regular customers in the Loblaw ecosystem. Here’s what it offers:

  • 3.5% back in points at Shoppers Drug Mart and Shoppers Drug Mart
  • At least 3¢ per litre back in points at Esso and Mobil stations
  • Earn 2% back in points at Loblaw banner grocery stores including Loblaws®, No Frills®, Real Canadian Superstore®, Maxi® and more3.
  • 1% back in points everywhere else

In practical terms, this represents between 1% and 3.5% back on your purchases at PC Optimum partner stores. Your points can be redeemed for discounts at checkout or converted into a $7 statement credit for every 10,000 points.

The card also includes a 24/7 concierge service, 90-day purchase assurance, an extended warranty, and Mastercard Global Service in case of emergency — all without paying a single dollar in annual fees.

Annual fee

Primary card$0
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$50,000
Household$80,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 35xPharmacy
  • 30xGas & EV
  • 20xGroceries
  • 10xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$509
2nd Year Value$288

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years

Carte World EliteMD MastercardMD PCMD

La carte World Elite Mastercard PC offre actuellement un bonus de bienvenue de 20 000 points PC Optimum après avoir dépensé 50 $ dans les deux premiers mois, sans frais annuels. Avec cette carte, vous obtenez :

  • 4,5 % de remise en points chez chez PharmaprixMD et Shoppers Drug MartMD
  • 3 % de remise en points dans les supermarchés de l’enseigne Loblaw, y compris LoblawsMD, No FrillsMD, Real Canadian SuperstoreMD, MaxiMD, et chez Joe Fresh
  • Au moins 3 ¢ par litre de remise en points par litre d’essence chez Esso et Mobil
  • 1 % de remise en points par dollar d’achats partout ailleurs

C’est-à-dire que vous obtenez entre 1% et 4,5 % de retour sur vos achats effectués auprès des commerces PC Optimum. Vous pouvez ensuite utiliser vos points pour des rabais à la caisse ou les convertir en crédit de 7 $ par tranche de 10 000 points directement sur votre solde de carte.

De plus, cette carte inclut une assurance médicale en voyage, une assurance collision pour véhicules de location, un service de concierge et une assurance-achats de 90 jours — des avantages rares pour une carte sans frais annuels.

Annual fee
$0
Our valuation
$20
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$20Total$20Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
20,000 points
Apply Now

on PC Financial's website

The PC World Elite Mastercard currently offers a 20,000 PC Optimum points welcome bonus after spending $50 in the first two months, with no annual fee. With this Card:

  • 4.5% back in points at Shoppers Drug Mart® and Pharmaprix®5
  • Get 3% back in points at Loblaw banner grocery stores including Loblaws®, No Frills®, Real Canadian Superstore®, Maxi® and at Joe Fresh.
  • At least 3¢ per litre back in points on fuel at Esso and Mobil
  • 1% back in points per dollar spent everywhere else

This means you get between 1% and 4.5% back on your purchases made at PC Optimum stores. You can then use your points for discounts at checkout or convert them into $7 credit per 10,000 points directly on your card balance.

Additionally, this card includes travel medical insurance, rental car collision insurance, a concierge service, and 90-day purchase assurance—rare benefits for a no-annual-fee card.

Annual fee

Primary card$0
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$80,000
Household$150,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 45xPharmacy
  • 30xGroceries
  • 10xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$539
2nd Year Value$336

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Included
Travel medical (55-64)Included

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 31 days

The PC Money account

You can also accumulate PC Optimum points by opening and using a PC Money Account.

PC Optimum Program – Participating Gas Stations

Scan your PC Optimum card when you fill up at over 4,500 Esso and Mobil gas stations in Canada and accumulate points as follows:

  • 10 points per litre: Earn 10 points per full litre of gas purchased
  • 10 points per dollar: Earn 10 points per dollar spent at the gas station convenience store or car wash

Stack these rewards with the extra points you earn with your PC Financial credit card and watch your balance grow. Also see our best credit cards for gas and transportation.

PC Optimum Plus Days

In addition to the special points events offered by Shoppers Drug Mart/Shoppers Drug Mart, you can also watch for another key points event available at more banners: PC Optimum Bonus Days.

PC Optimum Bonus Days offer exclusive deals, such as the opportunity to get 50% back in points on specific items, at Shoppers Drug Mart/Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, Esso, Mobil, and more.

PC Insiders

PC Insiders is a subscription service that offers subscribers additional benefits and higher point earning rates within the PC Optimum program.

Comparison of the two PC Optimum programs

OptimumOptimum Insiders
Annual FeeFree$119 + taxes
Earning points through personalized offersYesYes
10% discount on all PC productsNoYes
Easy online ordering and no collection feesNoYes — Priority time slots
Free delivery with no minimum purchase at Joefresh.com and ShoppersDrugMart.caNoYes
10% off all Joe Fresh itemsNoYes

PC Health App

A fun way to accumulate a few extra PC Optimum points is to download and use the PC Health app.

This app helps you manage your health with resources and support. In addition, it generally offers the opportunity to earn PC Optimum points when you first sign up and when you participate in health programs and challenges.

Redeeming your PC Optimum points

As a general rule, PC Optimum points are worth 0.1 cents each and must typically be redeemed in increments of 10,000.

However, there are a few exceptions, particularly for obtaining added value or adding bonus points to your redemptions.

Save on groceries

One of the most common ways to use PC Optimum points is to redeem points in-store to save on your bill at participating grocery stores. Discover our best tips at Maxi, for example.

Points can be redeemed at the rate of 10,000 points = $10 when you check out, and they must be redeemed in increments of 10,000.

Watch for special event redemption days, as they offer extra value for your points.

Learn more about promotional redemption days

You can redeem your points at Shoppers Drug Mart/Shoppers Drug Mart at the regular rate of 10,000 points = $10. However, if you want to get the most out of your PC Optimum points, wait for one of the Shoppers Drug Mart/Shoppers Drug Mart Spend Your Points events.

These events offer bonus points when you redeem a certain number of points. For example, at previous events, you could redeem 70,000 points for $70 plus $30 in bonus points, giving you a value of $100.

You can also redeem your PC Optimum points at the Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix online store, which gives you access to a number of products that are not available in physical stores.

Save on gas and car washes

PC Optimum points can also be redeemed for a discount the next time you fill up your vehicle at participating Esso or Mobil gas stations.

By redeeming 4,000 points, you get $0.10 off per whole liter of fuel (up to 40 liters), which is a value equivalent to the 10,000 points = $10 redemption you can get at grocery stores and pharmacies.

You can also redeem 10,000 points for a car wash package of your choice at the same gas stations. Depending on the package you choose, this redemption can be worth more than $10, making it a good use of your points.

Redeem at JoeFresh

For those looking to refresh their wardrobe, PC Optimum points can also be redeemed at Joe Fresh at the regular rate of 10,000 points = $10.

Statement credit for PC Financial credit cards

If you hold one of the 4 PC Financial credit cards, you can redeem your PC Optimum points for a statement credit to help cover your expenses at the rate of 10,000 points = $7.

We strongly recommend redeeming your PC points during a promotional period when redemption rates are especially attractive. This will give you a higher cash return for the same number of points.

By combining the PC Optimum loyalty card, a PC Financial credit card, and the PC Money Account, you will get the best return of PC points on your everyday spending.

Verdict

PC Optimum offers a highly compelling loyalty program with a strong lineup of financial products, simple and generous points earning, and regular, attractive promotional offers.

PC Financial credit cards appeal to Canadian consumers thanks to no annual fee, an attractive rewards earn rate, and included insurance. The PC Money Account also includes several benefits such as no monthly fees and a 50,000 PC points welcome offer.

However, while this program has several advantages, a few elements could be improved. PC Optimum credit cards are excellent, but the PC Optimum card on its own and the Money Account do not stand out as much in terms of points earning or meaningful benefits.

These two products deliver the most value when combined with President’s Choice Financial credit cards, but a higher earn rate would have been appreciated. In short, the PC Optimum points program is an excellent option for Canadian consumers who shop frequently at Maxi, Provigo, Joe Fresh, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Esso.

Joining the three financial products offered through this loyalty program will allow you to quickly earn rewards that can be redeemed for attractive cash discounts. If you are only an occasional shopper at one of these retailers, your cash returns will be modest. To receive our analyses each week, subscribe to our newsletter.

PC Optimum – Frequently asked questions

Do PC Optimum points expire?

PC Optimum points do not expire, but they may be forfeited if your account remains inactive for more than two years, as it could be closed. Earn or redeem points at least once to keep them active.

How to activate my PC Optimum card?

Visit the PC Optimum website or download the mobile app. Create an account with your email address, then enter the unique number of your physical card to activate it and start accumulating points.

How to see my PC Optimum points balance?

Check your balance via the PC Optimum app (displayed on the home page), on the pcoptimum.ca website after logging in, or directly on your receipts after each purchase at participating stores.

How do I become a member of the PC Optimum program?

You can sign up online or through the mobile app. You will need a valid e-mail address to complete the registration process.

How do I download PC Optimum offers?

Download the PC Optimum app from your mobile app store. Once installed, open the application and log in using your unique identifier, usually your e-mail address.

How do I redeem PC Optimum points?

Go to one of the participating stores, such as Shoppers Drug Mart, Real Canadian Superstore, or Loblaws. You can also redeem your points through the app by following the instructions provided.

How do I get the Maxi points card?

You can register in-store or online to become a Maxi member and benefit from the PC Optimum program. Once registered, you’ll receive a Maxi points card that you can use to earn PC Optimum points.

Which stores use PC Optimum?

PC Optimum is accepted at Loblaws, Provigo, Maxi, Shoppers Drug Mart, Joe Fresh, Real Canadian Superstore, No Frills, as well as participating Esso and Mobil gas stations, among other Loblaw-affiliated banners.

How do I contact PC Optimum technical support?

If you have any questions or concerns about the PC Optimum program, you can contact PC Optimum support at 1-866-727-6468.

Our featured card

Annual fee
$0
Our valuation
$20
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$20Total$20Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
20,000 points
Apply Now

on PC Financial's website

The PC World Elite Mastercard currently offers a 20,000 PC Optimum points welcome bonus after spending $50 in the first two months, with no annual fee. With this Card:

  • 4.5% back in points at Shoppers Drug Mart® and Pharmaprix®5
  • Get 3% back in points at Loblaw banner grocery stores including Loblaws®, No Frills®, Real Canadian Superstore®, Maxi® and at Joe Fresh.
  • At least 3¢ per litre back in points on fuel at Esso and Mobil
  • 1% back in points per dollar spent everywhere else

This means you get between 1% and 4.5% back on your purchases made at PC Optimum stores. You can then use your points for discounts at checkout or convert them into $7 credit per 10,000 points directly on your card balance.

Additionally, this card includes travel medical insurance, rental car collision insurance, a concierge service, and 90-day purchase assurance—rare benefits for a no-annual-fee card.

Annual fee

Primary card$0
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$80,000
Household$150,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 45xPharmacy
  • 30xGroceries
  • 10xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$539
2nd Year Value$336

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Included
Travel medical (55-64)Included

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 31 days

Our editorial integrity

Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.