Blue Rewards

Updated Mar 19, 2026
Loyalty program Blue Rewards
Posts
Cards
Website
Customer Service
Points Value
CAD

The AIR MILES program is taking its final bow. In Summer 2026, Blue Rewards will take over as the new loyalty program operated by a subsidiary of BMO. This guide details everything you need to know: points, partners, credit cards, redemption options, and the transition process.

Whether you are already an AIR MILES member or looking for an advantageous loyalty program, here is a complete overview of Blue Rewards. Also, consult our selection of the best credit cards to maximize your rewards.

What is Blue Rewards

Blue Rewards is the transformation of the AIR MILES program. BMO designed this program to simplify the loyalty experience in Canada. It combines a network of over 400 existing partners, new strategic partners, a modernized digital platform, and direct integration with BMO banking services.

Membership remains free and open to all Canadian residents. Furthermore, you do not need to be a BMO customer to participate. However, BMO customers enjoy additional benefits, including the ability to earn points with their debit card.

How Blue Points Work

Points Value

The program uses a simple equation: 1,500 Blue points = $10 for in-store redemptions or e-gift cards. This formula replaces the dual AIR MILES system (Cash Miles and Dream Miles) with a single balance. Additionally, daily usage limits and standard terms apply to in-store exchanges.

Earning Points

There are several ways to earn Blue points:

  • Retail Partners: Over 400 participating brands across Canada
  • BMO Credit Cards: Earn on every purchase with future Blue Rewards cards
  • BMO Chequing Accounts: Points on debit card purchases (with registration)
  • Receipt Scanning: Extra points via the mobile app on grocery purchases

Program Partners

Existing Partners

Blue Rewards maintains access to over 400 brands already present in the AIR MILES network. These include Pharmasave, Global Pet Foods, participating grocery retailers, and warehouse clubs across Canada. Other partners will be confirmed before the official launch.

New Strategic Partners

BMO has announced the addition of several renowned partners in three key sectors:

SectorPartnerDetails
Air TravelPorter AirlinesCanadian Airline
HospitalityAccor GroupFairmont, Novotel, SLS Hotels
DeliveryInstacartHome Grocery Delivery
DiningMTY GroupThai Express, Bâton Rouge, Pizza Delight, Allô! mon Coco, Sushi Shop, Mr. Sub, Manchu Wok, Mucho Burrito, Jugo Juice

Other partners will be announced before the launch in Summer 2026.

Shell Canada in Transition

Members can continue to earn and use points at Shell Canada until May 25, 2026 (March 2, 2026, in Alberta). After these dates, Shell will switch to the Scene+ program. Furthermore, BMO AIR MILES credit card holders can earn miles at Shell until May 25, 2026.

Redemption Options

In-Store Redemptions

Members can redeem their points in several ways:

  • In-Store Discounts: Direct discounts at participating partners
  • E-Gift Cards: Online exchange for vouchers
  • Fixed Rate: 1,500 points = $10 on every eligible transaction

Blue Rewards Travel

Blue Rewards Travel, powered by Expedia Group, provides access to virtually all major travel providers. You can book flights, hotels, and rental cars, then use your points to cover all or part of the cost.

  • No Minimum Threshold: Use your points starting from the very first point earned
  • Mixed Payment: Combine points and cash to pay for your bookings
  • Wide Selection: Access to the Expedia network for flights, hotels, and rentals
  • Cruises Excluded: Cruise bookings are not available through the platform
  • On-Site Fees: Fees paid directly to the establishment cannot be covered by points

Blue Rewards Credit Cards

BMO will launch new Blue Rewards credit cards in Summer 2026. These cards are positioned as the only retail credit cards in Canada to offer built-in accelerators on three everyday categories:

  • Gas: Accelerated earn rate at gas stations and EV charging stations
  • Grocery: Bonus points on supermarket purchases
  • Warehouse Clubs: Accelerated earning at membership-based big-box stores

Additionally, BMO Blue Rewards credit card holders get 10x the Blue points at participating partners. For every dollar spent at these partners, you earn rewards ten times faster.

Benefits for BMO Customers

BMO customers enjoy exclusive benefits beyond credit cards. Notably, all BMO chequing account holders can register to earn points with their debit card.

  • Debit Card: Earn points on gas, groceries, warehouse clubs, and electric vehicle charging
  • BMO Mobile App: Direct access to your points balance and personalized offers
  • BMO Online Banking: Unified management of your bank accounts and rewards

Transition from AIR MILES

The transition to Blue Rewards happens automatically. No action is required on your part. Here is what is not changing:

  • Automatic Conversion: Your AIR MILES miles become Blue points of equivalent value
  • Member Number: You keep your current membership number
  • Active Cards: Your physical and digital AIR MILES cards remain functional
  • BMO Credit Cards: Your card continues to work normally, with the number unchanged
  • Login Credentials: You keep your current login information

If you have an inactive AIR MILES account, you can reactivate it by earning at least one mile before the launch.

App and Platform

The existing AIR MILES app will update automatically to become the Blue Rewards app. The new logo will appear on the icon after the update. If you still see the AIR MILES logo, download the latest version from your app store.

The app allows you to:

  • Scan Receipts: Earn points on your grocery purchases
  • Manage Linked Cards: View and edit your cards in one place
  • Access Offers: Receive personalized promotions
  • Check Your Balance: Track your points in real time

Launch Schedule

PeriodEvent
January 2026Official announcement, merger of Cash/Dream balances, opening of the card waitlist
March 2026Enhanced travel services via Expedia Group
Spring 2026Announcement of Blue Rewards partnerships
Summer 2026Official launch and automatic conversion of AIR MILES accounts

Official Resources

Bottom Line

Blue Rewards marks a turning point for loyalty in Canada. The program retains the network of 400+ AIR MILES partners while adding players like Porter Airlines, Accor, and Instacart. The 1,500 points = $10 formula simplifies value calculation, and the travel platform via Expedia Group expands booking options.

For current AIR MILES members, the transition is effortless. For new members, free membership and future BMO credit cards with built-in accelerators offer an attractive entry point. Consult our best credit cards to compare all available options, and subscribe to our newsletter to follow upcoming announcements.

Blue Rewards — Frequently Asked Questions

Awards

Receive our newsletter every week!

Savings are here (if you don’t see the sign-up form, please click here):

Milesopedia