TLDR:
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Spar will roll out Bitcoin payments nationwide across Switzerland.
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Customers pay via QR codes using OpenCryptoPay.
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Switzerland strengthens its position as a crypto-friendly country.
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Over 600 businesses in Switzerland now accept Bitcoin.
Spar’s Bitcoin Pilot Expands Nationally
After piloting Bitcoin payments at two stores, Spar Switzerland is expanding the option nationwide. Shoppers will use OpenCryptoPay’s QR-based system to make Bitcoin transactions via the Lightning Network. The platform ensures a seamless, peer-to-peer crypto checkout experience.
Switzerland’s Growing Crypto Integration
The move makes Spar one of Switzerland’s first major supermarket chains to accept Bitcoin. This follows broader trends across the country: over 600 businesses now accept Bitcoin, Zug allows tax payments in crypto, and Lugano accepts Bitcoin and USDT for municipal services.
Bitcoin’s Contested Role in Switzerland’s Economy
While Spar embraces crypto, Swiss officials remain cautious. The Swiss National Bank recently rejected the idea of holding Bitcoin in its reserves, citing volatility. However, a citizen-led initiative is seeking a referendum to force the central bank to adopt Bitcoin alongside gold.
