Uber, Visa Launch New Program to Help Merchants Tap Local Opportunities

Uber and Visa today announced Uber Local Offers, a new way for riders to earn discounted rides by using the same Visa credit card on file with Uber at their local merchants.

The companies say that througj Uber Local Offers, Uber riders get more out of shopping and dining, while merchants get a new way to acquire customers.

The program will initially be rolled out in phases to Uber riders in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Here’s how it works.

Uber riders earn one point for every dollar spent at enrolled merchants. Points are tallied in the Uber app, and for every 100 accumulated points, riders will receive $10 off a future Uber ride. The program can be accessed through the latest version of the Uber app and once signed-up, riders will find it works seamlessly without having to access codes or use coupons

Visa cardholders who use Uber in the United States spend more than $144 billion per year in physical stores with $2 billion spent at local businesses soon after getting out of an Uber. Initial participating businesses in Los Angeles and San Francisco include Barcito, Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, Peet’s Coffee, The Pie Hole, and Wurstküche.

“We’ve built Local Offers right into the Uber app, making it a one stop shop for riders to see our curated list of places and track progress toward free rides,” said Drew Quinn, product manager, Uber.

Uber Local Offers is powered by the Visa Commerce Network, an offers and loyalty platform that works by connecting transactions between two merchants.

“Our partnership with Uber and local businesses is a great example of Visa’s ability to deliver value to businesses and consumers in a way that is simple and seamless,” said Terry Angelos, vice president of loyalty and offers for Visa. “The rider experience can now be extended beyond the car and into the local community, where merchants can access $2 billion in local spending while rewarding cardholders for everyday purchases.”