SPAR Switzerland is taking a bold step into the future of retail by launching crypto payments across its supermarket network. The rollout, powered by Binance Pay and Swiss fintech DFX.swiss, will bring crypto payments to 300 SPAR stores across Switzerland in the coming months. This is one of the largest retail crypto adoption initiatives in the country.
From Bitcoin Pilots to Nationwide Adoption
In April 2025, SPAR tested the concept in two locations, Zug and Kreuzlingen. These branches accepted Bitcoin payments through the Lightning Network, using DFX’s OpenCryptoPay infrastructure. Customers could scan a static QR code at checkout and pay directly from their Bitcoin wallets.
The pilot proved successful. Positive customer feedback and smooth technical performance encouraged SPAR to scale the crypto service. The company is now expanding its crypto checkout to hundreds of supermarkets across the country.
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How the Crypto Checkout Works
The system connects directly with Binance Pay Switzerland, giving shoppers access to over 100 cryptocurrencies and stablecoins. Supported options include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT.
- At checkout, the POS terminal displays a QR code.
- Customers scan it using the Binance Pay app.
- They choose their cryptocurrency, and the amount is instantly converted into Swiss francs.
For Bitcoin transactions, Lightning Network payments enable faster processing and lower fees compared to on-chain transfers. This technology ensures a smooth crypto checkout experience for regular shoppers.
Why SPAR Is Betting on Crypto
SPAR Switzerland Managing Director André Scherrer has pointed out that merchants can save up to two-thirds on payment fees compared to credit card transactions. Lower costs, combined with the ability to attract tech-savvy customers, make the move strategically appealing.
Switzerland already has more than 1,000 businesses accepting Bitcoin. Adding Bitcoin payments to everyday grocery shopping at SPAR could make digital currencies far more practical for regular use.
Global and European Context
While this rollout is led by SPAR Switzerland, the brand’s influence reaches far beyond national borders. SPAR International, headquartered in Amsterdam, oversees a global network of nearly 14,000 stores in 48 countries. Its European footprint is particularly strong, with leading market positions in Austria, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, and Croatia.
This scale makes the Swiss initiative one of the most significant retail crypto integrations in Europe to date. If the model proves successful, it could inspire other SPAR operators and competing supermarket chains to adopt similar crypto checkout systems across multiple countries.
Partnerships Driving the Rollout
- Binance Pay Switzerland: Provides wallet integration and supports multi-asset payments.
- DFX.swiss: Manages Bitcoin transactions via the Lightning Network in Switzerland and handles instant fiat conversion.
This setup allows SPAR Switzerland to accept cryptocurrency at checkout without taking on exchange rate risk or managing crypto custody.
What’s Next for SPAR’s Crypto Strategy
Currently, crypto payments are active in 100 stores. The goal is to expand to all 300 targeted locations in the coming months. Although no fixed date has been given, the rollout is progressing steadily.
Some industry watchers are already wondering whether other chains will adopt similar systems, and if SPAR will bring its Swiss supermarket crypto checkout to locations outside Switzerland.
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Takeaway
SPAR’s crypto payments rollout in Switzerland is more than a local initiative. Backed by one of the largest supermarket brands globally, it has the potential to influence how digital assets are used in everyday retail across Europe and beyond. By combining Bitcoin payments, stablecoins, and Lightning Network technology, SPAR is positioning itself as both an innovator in the Swiss market and a possible model for global supermarket adoption of crypto.
Readers’ frequently asked questions
Can customers still earn loyalty points when paying with cryptocurrency at SPAR?
Yes. According to SPAR Switzerland, crypto payments are processed like standard card transactions for loyalty purposes, so eligible purchases still earn points.
Are there any extra fees for paying with Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies in SPAR stores?
No. SPAR states that customers pay the exact converted amount in Swiss francs, with no additional surcharge for using cryptocurrency.
Can customers get a refund in cryptocurrency if they return an item paid for in crypto?
No. Refunds are processed in Swiss francs, regardless of the original payment method.
What Is In It For You? Action items you might want to consider
Test the crypto checkout experience
If you shop at SPAR in Switzerland, try paying with Bitcoin via the Lightning Network or using Binance Pay for altcoins and stablecoins. This will give you first-hand insight into speed, fees, and convenience compared to traditional payment methods.
Compare crypto payments with card loyalty benefits
Since eligible purchases still earn SPAR loyalty points, see if using cryptocurrency offers you the same or better rewards as paying with a bank card, especially when factoring in potential savings on exchange fees.
Track the rollout to additional SPAR stores
Follow SPAR Switzerland’s announcements to know when crypto payments reach more locations. If you live in a city that’s not yet covered, this will help you plan when and where to use digital assets for your grocery shopping.
