This week, Apple revealed new partners for the 3% cash back program with the Apple Card, including Booking.com and Chargepoint. While these additions are great, it’s worth noting that one of the current partners, Panera Bread, will be terminating their partnership in a few months.
As you check the “Merchant Benefits” section in the Wallet app for the Apple Card, you’ll notice a new message in the Panera Bread area, which states:
Beginning February 1, 2025, transactions made using Apple Pay at Panera Bread will shift from earning 3% Daily Cash back to the regular 2% with Apple Pay.
Post-February 1st, the opportunity to earn 3% cash back when dining at Panera will no longer be available, marking the end of Apple’s only dining-related partnership.
While it’s disappointing to lose this benefit, it seems the financial aspects may not have aligned for Panera, leading to the decision to end the partnership.
Apple first introduced the 3% Daily Cash at Panera in August 2020, making this collaboration last for over four years. Additionally, Apple has promoted specific Apple Card sign-up incentives for Panera patrons, with rewards like $50 cash back after spending over $50 at the restaurant.
Though Panera Bread is exiting the program, Apple Card users can still enjoy 3% cash back at Apple and at these merchants:
- Ace Hardware
- Booking.com
- ChargePoint
- Exxon/Mobil
- Nike
- T-Mobile
- Uber/Uber Eats
- Walgreens/Duane Reade
If you’re keen on leveraging the 3% cash back at Panera, you have less than three months remaining to do so.
Are you a user of the Apple Card? What enhancements would you like to see in Apple’s credit card services? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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