American Express launches inSite online deals tool

American Express launched the inSite online shopping tool November 10 to make deal hunting easier for members. The service will tip off members to discounts, free shipping, bonus points and other special offers when they search the Web.

Consumers who download the program and enter a search term will see a blue American Express icon with an arrow next to results that offer potential savings. The platform displays deals from more than 250 brands, such as Banana Republic, Crate & Barrel and Barnes & Noble.

“InSite is unique in the marketplace because it eliminates the hassle of looking for specials or visiting offer pages to find deals before shopping online,” said Elizabeth Skinner, VP of marketing at American Express. “Instead, it serves them up automatically to card members as they shop online on both search results and retailer sites.”

American Express is one of a handful of credit card companies that have recently improved their e-commerce offerings. Visa launched the Rightcliq online shopping service and acquired CyberSource, an online fraud prevention and payment gateway, earlier this year. MasterCard bought UK-based payment services company DataCash Group and launched MasterCard MarketPlace, a discount site for card members, this year. Discover Financial Services said it has plans to collaborate with Firethorn Holdings on the Swagg mobile gift card application.

The program, available to members of American Express Membership Rewards on its Platinum, Gold, Green, Zync or Blue Cards, can be downloaded at insite.americanexpress.com. The company will promote it primarily through online channels, including e-mail, e-newsletters and social media.

American Express timed the rollout to help customers with their holiday shopping, and to place savings opportunities in front of them in a way that's integrated with their online activities.

“We think it is an especially helpful tool for our card members who are enrolled in our Membership Rewards program and who are savvy about online deals — those who seek offers before they make a purchase online,” said Skinner. “It ensures our card members do not miss out on any of the special benefits that come with their card.”