Leading supermarket chain SPAR is set to roll out Bitcoin payments across its stores in Switzerland following a successful pilot program in Zug and Kreuzlingen. The move marks a significant step toward mainstream cryptocurrency adoption in everyday retail transactions across the country.
According to a recent update from DFX Swiss, the crypto services firm behind the initiative, SPAR customers will soon be able to pay for their groceries using Bitcoin nationwide. The payment system is powered by OpenCryptoPay, a platform developed by DFX Swiss that leverages the Bitcoin Lightning Network to facilitate fast and low-cost transactions.
Shoppers can complete their purchases simply by scanning a static QR code presented by the cashier at checkout a seamless process designed to integrate cryptocurrency payments smoothly into the existing retail experience.
“Zug was just the prototype location we will soon be rolling it out throughout Switzerland,” OpenCryptoPay announced on X.
Bitcoin Adoption Grows Despite Central Bank Caution
SPAR’s successful Bitcoin payment trial comes as broader discussions around Bitcoin’s role in the Swiss economy intensify. Consumer-level adoption appears to be gaining momentum, even as the Swiss National Bank (SNB) maintains a cautious stance toward cryptocurrencies.
Earlier this week, SNB Chairman Martin Schlegel reiterated the central bank’s position at a shareholder meeting in Bern, stating that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin “do not yet meet the necessary stability and security requirements” to be considered suitable reserve assets.
Despite central bank hesitancy, Switzerland continues to bolster its reputation as a global crypto hub. Zug’s renowned Crypto Valley home to blockchain giants like Ethereum (ETH) has seen explosive growth, surpassing a $593 billion valuation in 2024 and adding 17 new crypto unicorns over the past year.
A Growing Trend Toward Crypto Payments
SPAR’s Bitcoin initiative reflects a broader trend of increasing integration of digital assets into real-world commerce. With Switzerland at the forefront of regulatory clarity and technological innovation, more businesses are exploring crypto payment solutions that offer consumers greater flexibility and faster transaction options.
As SPAR gears up for a nationwide launch of Bitcoin payments, the move could set a precedent for other major retailers in Switzerland and potentially throughout Europe to follow suit.
