American Express has entered into a partnership with SAP Ariba to introduce new payment and financing options for buyers and suppliers on Ariba Network.

Under the arrangement, American Express will enable its virtual card capabilities within the SAP Ariba process and platform using Ariba Network APIs.

That will facilitate commerce, payments, and reconciliation between businesses on a single platform, the companies said.

The move will help improve the operational efficiencies as customers will not require a standalone account for payment transactions.

Slated to roll out later this year, the integration will enable businesses to generate virtual card payments using their existing American Express Corporate Cards.

American Express executive vice president for global commercial services E-Bai Koo said: “With over half of American Express’ largest global customers already using SAP Ariba to manage their expenses, this partnership has the opportunity to provide significant value for our joint customers.”

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The integration is expected to improve businesses’ operational efficiencies, enhance payment speed and reduce risk of fraud, among other things.

SAP Ariba SVP of business network and ecosystem Sean Thompson said: “Partnering with American Express as a new network extension partner – integrating virtual payment capabilities within Ariba Network – we’re able to deliver a true end-to-end procure-to-pay process to customers that changes the game in the corporate payments space.”

Last month, American Express agreed to acquire LoungeBuddy to offer its premium card members better access to lounges in airports globally.