Spar Supermarkets is set to revolutionize the shopping experience in Switzerland by allowing customers to pay with Bitcoin at all its stores. This move comes after successful trials in Zug and Kreuzlingen, where Bitcoin payments settled instantly via Lightning QR codes from DFX Swiss’s OpenCryptoPay platform.
Cashiers will now scan a static Lightning Network QR code at checkout, and payments will settle in seconds, with a confirmation receipt printed for the customer. This development marks Spar as the first major grocer in the country to incorporate Bitcoin as a payment option, further solidifying Switzerland’s reputation as a hub for real-world crypto adoption.
With over 600 Swiss merchants already accepting Bitcoin or stablecoins for everyday transactions, the country continues to showcase a strong appetite for cryptocurrency. Rahim Taghizadegan of Bitcoin Association Switzerland praised the system, calling the experience “instant and easy” and encouraging customers to “pay in sats” to support the service.
Despite the Swiss National Bank’s reluctance to recognize Bitcoin as a store of value, market demand is driving rapid adoption. Pro-crypto activists are even pushing for a referendum to compel the SNB to add Bitcoin alongside gold in its reserves. Spar’s decision to roll out Bitcoin payments nationwide demonstrates how businesses can lead the way in crypto adoption, outpacing policy debates.
Zurich, a hotspot for crypto innovation, ranks high in Multipolitan’s 2025 Crypto Report, trailing only behind Hong Kong in terms of crypto friendliness. The city’s clear regulatory guidelines, tax incentives for innovation, and robust digital infrastructure have fostered widespread adoption. Hong Kong, on the other hand, has secured the world’s second spot due to its commitment to digital asset investment and innovation.
The global shift towards embracing crypto is evident in countries like Pakistan, which recently joined the trend by exploring blockchain’s potential. Finance Minister Aurangzeb has urged regulators to draft clear rules for cryptocurrencies, exchanges, and blockchain applications. Pakistan’s proactive stance has attracted international partners, culminating in a partnership with World Liberty Financial to accelerate blockchain initiatives and DeFi protocols.
The collaboration between Pakistan and WLFI aims to launch regulatory sandboxes, explore tokenization of real-world assets, and scale stablecoin remittances. This landmark partnership underscores Pakistan’s commitment to shaping a secure and transparent crypto market, showcasing the country’s willingness to embrace digital innovation.
In conclusion, Spar Supermarkets’ decision to introduce Bitcoin payments across Switzerland signifies a growing trend towards crypto adoption in the country. With market demand driving rapid changes in policy and regulation, Switzerland and other countries are paving the way for a global shift towards embracing cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.