PC Optimum Points Guide: Maximize Value at Loblaws, Shoppers, and More

What Are PC Optimum Points Worth?

PC Optimum points have a fixed redemption value: 10,000 points = $10.00, which translates to exactly 0.1 cpp (or 1 cent per 10 points).

Unlike airline programs where value varies by redemption method, PC Optimum is straightforward: every point is worth the same regardless of how you redeem. The game is entirely about earning more points, not finding better redemptions.

Where to Earn PC Optimum Points

Participating Stores

• Loblaws and banners (No Frills, Real Canadian Superstore, Valu-mart, Zehrs, Maxi)
• Shoppers Drug Mart (Pharmaprix in Quebec)
• Esso and Mobil gas stations
• Joe Fresh
• T&T Supermarket

PC Financial Credit Cards

Card	Base Earn	Best Category
PC Financial Mastercard	10 pts/$1 everywhere	General
PC Financial World Mastercard	15 pts/$1 at PC stores, 10 pts/$1 elsewhere	Groceries
PC Financial World Elite	30 pts/$1 at Shoppers/Loblaws, 10 pts/$1 elsewhere	Groceries & Pharmacy

The World Elite card is the clear winner for PC Optimum earners: 30 points per dollar at Loblaws and Shoppers is effectively a 3% return — one of the highest grocery earn rates in Canada for a no-fee card.

Redemption Strategy

Minimum Redemption Thresholds

You must redeem in blocks:

Points	Cash Value
10,000	$10
20,000	$20
30,000	$30
40,000	$40
50,000	$50

When to Redeem

Always redeem during bonus redemption events. Shoppers Drug Mart regularly runs events like "Redeem 50,000 points, get $75 worth of products" (a 50% bonus) or "Redeem 200,000 points, get $300 worth" (also 50% bonus). These events effectively boost your point value to 0.15 cpp instead of the usual 0.1.

Maximizing Your Earn Rate

1. The Shoppers Drug Mart 20x Events

Shoppers runs frequent 20x points events (sometimes even 25x). On these days, a $100 purchase earns 20,000-25,000 points ($20-$25 back). Stack this with:

• High-value beauty or skincare purchases
• Electronics (Shoppers sells Apple products and other tech)
• Gift cards (earn points on gift card purchases during events)

2. PC Optimum App Offers

The PC Optimum app provides personalized offers based on your shopping history. Load these offers before every shop — they often include bonus points on items you were already going to buy.

3. Stack Multiple Earn Methods

On a single transaction you can combine:

1. PC Financial World Elite card (30 pts/$1)
2. Personal PC Optimum app offers
3. In-store promotions (e.g., "Bonus 3,000 points on this item")
4. Shoppers 20x events (if applicable)

A well-timed purchase at Shoppers during a 20x event with loaded offers can deliver an effective return of 30%+ on that transaction.

Who Should Collect PC Optimum?

PC Optimum is ideal for Canadians who:

• Shop primarily at Loblaws-banner grocery stores
• Visit Shoppers Drug Mart regularly
• Want a no-fee credit card with strong grocery returns
• Prefer simplicity over complex transfer partner strategies
• Fill up at Esso or Mobil stations

The program is not ideal for travel redemptions or aspirational awards. If you want flights and hotels, pair your PC Optimum earn with a separate travel card for non-grocery spending.

Key Takeaway

PC Optimum is a simple, powerful program for everyday Canadians. The earn rate at Loblaws and Shoppers (especially with the World Elite card and bonus events) is among the highest in Canada for these categories. The key is strategic timing: always redeem during bonus redemption events, and always shop during 20x points promotions at Shoppers.