In a significant move toward enhancing financial inclusion and digital payments, Equity Bank Kenya has partnered with American Express (AmEx) and Carrefour Kenya, operated by Majid Al Futtaim, to roll out a suite of world-class payment solutions across the retail giant’s outlets.
As the exclusive issuer and acquirer of American Express cards in Kenya, Equity Bank currently offers Green and Gold AmEx cards, which come with a range of benefits including Membership Rewards points, travel insurance, and access to global merchant networks. The partnership now brings these privileges to Carrefour’s customers, improving their in-store and online shopping experiences.
“This collaboration is a step forward in driving Kenya’s transition to a cashless economy while making premium financial services more accessible,” said a senior executive at Equity Bank.
The integration of AmEx card acceptance at Carrefour outlets is expected to significantly boost cashless transaction adoption among Kenyan consumers, aligning with the country’s broader digital finance agenda.
To sweeten the deal for cardholders, Equity Bank and AmEx have also revamped the Membership Rewards platform, offering easier redemption of points for items such as travel, electronics, and merchandise.
This partnership represents more than just payment convenience. It symbolizes a strategic alignment between banking and retail to foster financial inclusion, offering more Kenyans a pathway into the formal financial system.
Analysts have praised the move as a model collaboration between financial institutions and retail brands, with potential to drive innovation, improve customer experiences, and spur economic growth.