A significant shift is underway for millions of Canadians who have diligently collected Air Miles. The iconic loyalty program is set to be replaced this summer by Blue Rewards, a new initiative spearheaded by BMO Financial Group.
The transition promises a seamless experience for collectors, as existing Air Miles balances will be automatically converted to Blue Points at a comparable value. This ensures that years of accumulated rewards won’t simply vanish with the change.
BMO is investing in a dedicated Blue Rewards app, designed to enhance the user experience. Existing BMO customers will find the new program conveniently integrated directly into their current mobile banking app and website.
For the time being, Air Miles collectors can continue using their cards as usual, with no immediate action required. BMO cardholders can continue to use their existing cards without interruption, and detailed information about the new program will be released in the coming months.
However, a notable change impacts those who frequently fuel up at Shell gas stations. BMO’s partnership with Shell Canada is coming to an end, as Shell prepares to join the Scene+ loyalty program.
The phasing out of the Shell partnership will begin in Alberta on March 3, 2026, and extend across the rest of Canada by May 26, 2026. Collectors can still earn Air Miles at Shell using their BMO Air Miles credit card until May 25, 2026.
BMO positions Blue Rewards as a substantial upgrade, promising increased flexibility, more valuable benefits, and a broader network of partners. The focus is on a simplified, personalized digital experience designed to help members achieve their financial goals.
According to BMO, the new platform will deliver rewards that are “simpler, flexible, and more personalized,” ultimately helping members make tangible financial progress. This represents a significant evolution for one of Canada’s most recognizable loyalty programs.
The acquisition of the Air Miles program by BMO in March 2023, following LoyaltyOne Co.’s bankruptcy filing, paved the way for this transformation. It marked a turning point for the future of rewards programs in Canada.
