American Express

Some advice is too good not to serve again. We asked participants at Restaurant Academy, hosted by American Express and Resy in partnership with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), to share one piece of advice that has shaped the way they lead, build and grow — and that they’d pass along to the next generation of restaurant leaders.  Their answers are a reminder that the lessons that stay with us can become the lessons we pass forward. What’s one piece of advice you’d serve again?

Today, American Express published its Intent Intelligence framework, outlining our approach to capturing and authenticating customer purchase intent before an agent executes a purchase.    Part of the Agentic Commerce Experiences (ACE)™ Developer Kit, the framework is designed to help keep transactions aligned with what customers approve, while providing issuers with additional context to support authorization decisioning, risk management, and dispute resolution. By making the framework publicly available, we aim to help advance a common industry approach for intent in agentic commerce. Read more about the framework: https://go.amex/1b15dV

At Restaurant Academy in Washington, D.C., hosted by American Express and Resy in partnership with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), acclaimed industry leaders Mashama Bailey, Nok Suntaranon, Gregory Gourdet and Victoria James shared lessons and insights from their own journeys.  From leading with intention and investing in people to navigating the business of hospitality, they offered practical perspectives on building strong teams, creating opportunities for growth and leading restaurants for the future. Because sometimes the right advice can put new possibilities on the menu. Watch a few highlights from the conversations.

This #WorldMentalHealthDay, we’re encouraging #TeamAmex to Take a Moment. Step away from the screen. Take a breath. Get moving. Connect with a colleague. And importantly, ask for help when you need it. Our Healthy Minds program gives colleagues and their households access to free therapy and a range of mental health resources.   Throughout October, we’re offering sessions for colleagues on managing change and uncertainty, quieting overthinking, and maintaining healthy relationships. We’re also exploring how technology can affect anxiety—with practical tools to help colleagues navigate these challenges and support their mental health and holistic well-being.

Great things happen when restaurant leaders come together around the table.   American Express and Resy, in partnership with the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), recently brought together the Restaurant Academy cohort to Washington D.C. to kick off six months of development and growth. Following a day of learning with industry mentors and leaders, the group headed to Ama Restaurant to celebrate the start of the journey, with ideas exchanged, relationships formed and inspiration shared.  Over the months ahead, participants will strengthen their leadership and business skills, learn from industry experts and one another, and build valuable connections.  Thank you to our speakers, partners and leaders for helping bring Restaurant Academy to life and supporting emerging restaurant leaders across the country. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eBvQAt2N

American Express today announced its largest Centurion Lounge Network expansion to date, spanning four locations and further strengthening its presence in two of the world’s leading travel hubs, New York and London. The company also plans to expand and reimagine its existing lounges at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). As the Centurion Lounge Network continues to grow, Card Members can enjoy more space, elevated amenities, premium food and beverage, best-in-class service, and thoughtful design that reflects the unique character and culture of each destination. Read more: https://go.amex/BV5FZs

What does it take to help businesses save time and simplify their financial back office? In our first Membership Minute, Raymond Joabar, Group President Global Commercial Services, shares how the new Amex Corporate™ offerings combine next-gen AI capabilities, software and the Corporate Cashback® Card with something just as important: trusted human support and service. More information: https://go.amex/cWkd8k

American Express ranked No. 2 on the Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance list, marking the company’s 10th year on the list and seven consecutive years in the top three. The ranking is based on survey responses from more than 194,000 employees at Great Place To Work Certified™ companies across the financial services and insurance industry. The survey examines employees’ experiences at work, including trust in leadership, connection with colleagues and overall well-being. Read more: https://go.amex/x8BNkk

AI is changing how customers search, shop, and buy. What does that mean for businesses? Anna Marrs, Group President of Global Merchant & Network Services, and Luke Gebb, EVP and Head of Global Innovation, discuss the new Amex Business Playbook for Agentic Commerce and how businesses can prepare as AI increasingly influences commerce.   Link to Playbook: go.amex/c9rjrd

Independent restaurants do more than serve great food—they create jobs, bring people together and help shape communities. That’s why American Express and the International Downtown Association Foundation are supporting them through the 2026 Backing International Small Restaurants grant program. As we celebrate five years of the program, we’re proud to help restaurant owners invest in their businesses and make an impact beyond their doors. Applications are now open. Learn more about the program and how to apply: https://go.amex/T5RD4q