Spar began to accept Bitcoin payments in its headquarters in Zug, Switzerland, marking another milestone in the progressive approach of Switzerland to the adoption of Bitcoin. The implementation uses the Lightning network through the DFX Swiss OpenCryptopay solution, allowing instant transactions in the store.
The position of the shop in Zug, often called “Crypto Valley”, reflects the embrace of Switzerland technology. The country emerged as a global leader in the adoption of Bitcoin, with cities such as Zug and Lugano who have guided the initiatives to integrate Bitcoin into daily transactions.
Lugano, in particular, made news with his initiative “Plan ₿”, which aims to make Bitcoin a tender legal actually in the city. The plan, supported by the mayor Michele Foletti, has already allowed Bitcoin payments for taxes, public services and in hundreds of local traders. The city also collaborated with Tether to establish a technological education center and a startup fund.
“This SPA position is among the first supermarkets in Switzerland where you can pay directly to the checkout using Bitcoin via Lnurl,” announced DFX Swiss. The implementation could open the way for expansion through the Spar network of over 13,900 stores in 48 countries, which serves about 14.7 million customers every day.
Rahim Taghizadegan, director of Switzerland of the Bitcoin Association, has shown the simplicity of the system: “Just scan a static QR code, send Sat, immediate and easy recording from the cashier”. This intuitive approach aligns with Switzerland’s vision to make bitcoin transactions accessible to everyday consumers.
Bitcoin’s position in the country has attracted numerous companies and initiatives of Bitcoin and Cryptovane. In addition to Zug and Lugano, the cities of all of Switzerland are exploring similar programs, supported by a solid banking sector that embraces more and more bitcoin.
Spal’s initiative is based on this foundation, joining other Swiss retailers and companies in accepting Bitcoin payments. The move could influence adoption in the retail sector, in particular given the role of Switzerland as a model for the integration of Bitcoin in traditional finance and trade.