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RBC Rewards Program Incentivizes Travellers to Use Airbnb

December 7th, 2015  |  Canadian Business

One of Canada’s big 5 banks just gave a huge nod of approval to Airbnb. RBC announced a major points partnership with Airbnb Inc., the popular online home-sharing service that’s giving the hotel industry some serious competition.

According to the Financial Post, RBC is offering its RBC Rewards Visa cardholders double the usual points if they use their card to book an Airbnb. And, as an added incentive, first-time users will score a welcome bonus of 7,000 points when they rent an Airbnb room, apartment, or house. The promotion will run until the end of February 2016.

This partnership marks a big win for companies emerging from the growing share economy sector -- companies like Uber. The partnership is certainly a triumph for Airbnb, especially after Expedia Inc., just announced plans to acquire one of Airbnb’s major competitors, HomeAway Inc.

RBC’s points program will lend credibility to Airbnb and drive all-new customers to Airbnb’s website and app. More Canadian travellers, some who never would have considered a non-hotel lodging option, will likely get comfort from the knowledge that an established Canadian bank has basically just endorsed Airbnb.

But what’s in it for RBC? According to the bank’s press release, 45% of Canadians place big value on rewards programs that let them quickly earn points. RBC may be hoping that an Airbnb partnership will attract new rewards members and motivate existing clients.

In other words, it looks like Airbnb might be making a permanent home for itself in Canada.

Image Courtesy of Adobe Stock