AmEx Merchant Network Surpasses 190 Million Locations

American Express's (AXP) global merchant network has surpassed 190 million locations, a significant milestone that includes the addition of approximately 20 million locations in 2026 alone.

The company credits its partnerships with banks, fintechs, payment facilitators and local acquirers, alongside its own acquiring network, for this expansion. Acceptance outside the United States has more than doubled over the past four years, with notable growth in Canada, Japan, Mexico, Europe, and Singapore.

The company is also broadening digital wallet access through Alipay and expanding coverage in restaurants, hotels, airlines, and transit areas. U.S. acceptance remains at 99% of places taking credit cards since 2019.