Spar, a prominent Swiss supermarket chain, has made history by becoming the first of its kind to accept direct Bitcoin payments at checkout. This innovative move was announced on April 17th through DFX Swiss’s LinkedIn update. Utilizing the Lightning Network, the payment system delivers quick and cost-effective transactions for customers who can simply scan a QR code to pay. 🙌
OpenCryptoPay, an open peer-to-peer platform developed specifically for in-person cryptocurrency payments, powers this new system.
Spar isn’t alone. Their innovative approach has earned recognition on BTC Map, a community project that tracks stores and businesses accepting Bitcoin, with 1,013 locations currently in Switzerland offering such options.
Rahim Taghizadegan, director at Bitcoin Association Switzerland and an academic lecturer, praised the system’s simplicity. He explains, “Just scan a static QR code, send sats, immediate and easy registration by the cashier.”
Taghizadegan believes widespread adoption could see this payment method adopted throughout the country. He used the Phoenix Wallet for his transaction but stresses that most wallets supporting the Lightning Network will work effectively.
Spar’s global reach is significant, with over 13,900 stores spanning 48 countries. This move showcases the growing acceptance of cryptocurrency in everyday life.