SPAR has started accepting Bitcoin payments at its Zug, Switzerland location, marking a significant step in the country’s forward-thinking stance on cryptocurrency. This move is powered by the Lightning Network via DFX Swiss’s OpenCryptoPay system, allowing for instant point-of-sale transactions.
Located in Zug—familiarly known as “Crypto Valley”—the store reflects Switzerland’s strong embrace of innovative financial technologies. The nation continues to lead globally in Bitcoin adoption, with cities like Zug and Lugano driving efforts to make Bitcoin a part of daily life.
Lugano, in particular, has gained attention with its “Plan ₿” initiative, which seeks to establish Bitcoin as a de facto legal tender. Backed by Mayor Michele Foletti, the plan has enabled the use of Bitcoin for paying taxes, public services, and purchases at hundreds of local businesses. Additionally, the city has joined forces with Tether to launch a tech education center and a startup fund.
“This SPAR branch is one of the first supermarkets in Switzerland to offer direct Bitcoin payments at checkout using LNURL,” announced DFX Swiss. This rollout could potentially lead to wider adoption across SPAR’s global network of over 13,900 stores in 48 countries, which collectively serve around 14.7 million customers every day.
Rahim Taghizadegan, Director of the Bitcoin Association Switzerland, showcased how simple the system is: “Just scan a static QR code, send sats — it’s instant and easily confirmed by the cashier.” This streamlined process reflects Switzerland’s commitment to making Bitcoin transactions straightforward and accessible for everyday users.
Switzerland’s supportive attitude toward Bitcoin has drawn a growing number of crypto companies and initiatives to the country. In addition to Zug and Lugano, other Swiss cities are beginning to explore similar programs, backed by a strong banking sector that is increasingly open to Bitcoin.
SPAR’s adoption of Bitcoin builds on this solid foundation, aligning with a broader trend of Swiss retailers and businesses embracing cryptocurrency payments. This development has the potential to accelerate Bitcoin adoption within the retail industry, especially as Switzerland continues to serve as a leading example of integrating Bitcoin into mainstream finance and commerce.
