Emre Yumlu 
A Spar supermarket in Zug, Switzerland, is now allowing customers to pay with Bitcoin. This system, implemented through the Bitcoin Lightning Network, stands as a new example of the country’s crypto-friendly policies.
Bitcoin Payment at Checkout
The payment system has also been featured on BTC Map, a platform that lists businesses accepting BTC payments. DFX Swiss, a Switzerland-based payment firm managing the process, announced on April 17:
“This Spar location is one of the first supermarkets where you can pay directly at the checkout using Bitcoin. Thanks to our new #OpenCryptoPay solution, you can now make BTC payments through LNURL.”
The OpenCryptoPay system is an open-source P2P payment standard developed for in-person cryptocurrency transactions.
Switzerland Leading in Crypto Payments
Switzerland has long been considered one of the most crypto-friendly countries in Europe. In 2023, the city of Lugano began accepting Bitcoin and Tether (USDT) for all municipal payments.
According to BTC Map data, there are currently 1,013 stores and businesses in Switzerland accepting Bitcoin payments.
Major Retail Chain Expands into Crypto Payments
Spar, a global supermarket chain with over 13,900 stores in 48 countries, serves approximately 14.7 million customers daily. By introducing Bitcoin as a payment option, the company is helping to further establish cryptocurrency legitimacy on a global scale.
Seamless Bitcoin Payment via QR Code
One of the biggest criticisms in the crypto world is the complexity of user experience. However, the system at the Spar store in Zug challenges this notion. Rahim Taghizadegan, director of Bitcoin Association Switzerland, explained the payment process on April 16:
“Simply scan a static QR code, send the sats, and the cashier immediately registers the payment. If enough demand exists, it could be rolled out nationwide.”
Taghizadegan mentioned using Phoenix Wallet for the Lightning Network, but noted that other wallets also work seamlessly.
Switzerland’s Growing Blockchain Ecosystem
Switzerland’s blockchain ecosystem, known as Crypto Valley, saw a 55% growth in 2024, reaching a valuation of $593 billion. Among the 50 regional companies, 17 have reached unicorn status, valued at over $1 billion.
Prominent projects within Crypto Valley include Ethereum, Cardano, and the Casper blockchain.
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