Best Canadian Loyalty Programs Ranked

By Free.ca ·

Aeroplan, PC Optimum, Scene+, Triangle Rewards — we rank Canada's top loyalty programs by real value and earning potential.

Canadians have access to some of the world's best loyalty programs, but not all programs deliver equal value. We've analyzed earning rates, redemption values, and practical usability to rank Canada's most popular loyalty programs from best to worst.

1. PC Optimum — Best for Groceries

PC Optimum tops our ranking for its combination of earning potential, redemption simplicity, and broad acceptance. The program covers Loblaws, No Frills, Shoppers Drug Mart, Real Canadian Superstore, and Joe Fresh. Personalized offers dramatically boost earning rates beyond the base one percent. During Shoppers Drug Mart 20x events, effective earn rates reach twenty to thirty percent.

Redemption is straightforward: ten thousand points equals ten dollars, redeemable at any participating store. No complicated charts, no blackout dates, no expiration worries as long as you make a transaction annually. For Canadian families who grocery shop regularly, PC Optimum provides the most practical, consistent value.

2. Aeroplan — Best for Travel

Aeroplan has been completely rebuilt and now offers one of the best airline loyalty programs globally. Earn points through Air Canada flights, the TD Aeroplan Visa, CIBC Aeroplan cards, and purchases at partner retailers including Uber, Starbucks, and Home Hardware. The new dynamic pricing model for flights can deliver excellent value, especially for premium cabin redemptions.

The key to Aeroplan value is the credit card earn rates and the premium cabin sweet spots. Redeeming points for business class on partner airlines like Lufthansa, ANA, or EVA Air delivers per-point values of three to five cents, compared to about one and a half cents for economy. Even economy redemptions provide reasonable value for Canadian travellers.

3. Scene+ — Best All-Around

Scene+ earns the all-around award for its versatility. Earn at Cineplex, Sobeys family stores, and through Scotiabank products. Redeem for movies, groceries, travel, and gift cards. The breadth of earning and spending options makes Scene+ useful for virtually every Canadian consumer.

The Scotiabank credit card partnership makes Scene+ particularly strong for Scotiabank customers, who earn points on everyday spending that can be redeemed across the entire partner network.

4. Triangle Rewards — Best for Home

Triangle Rewards from Canadian Tire earns at Canadian Tire, Sport Chek, Mark's, Atmosphere, and gas bars. The Triangle credit card provides strong earn rates, and the program frequently runs bonus multiplier events. Redemption is simple — points become Canadian Tire money usable across all banner stores.

For homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts, Triangle Rewards accumulates quickly on hardware, sporting goods, and automotive purchases. The gas bar earning makes everyday fill-ups contribute to your rewards balance.

5. Other Notable Programs

Air Miles has lost ground in recent years but still offers value for everyday shopping and travel redemptions. The program has simplified its structure and remains relevant for shoppers at partner stores like Metro, Rona, and Shell. CIBC Aventura and TD Rewards provide solid value for credit card users who don't want to commit to a specific airline program. BMO Rewards offers flexible point transfers and direct travel bookings.