SPAR Switzerland is implementing cryptocurrency and stablecoin payments at over 100 of its stores across the country in partnership with Binance Pay and DFX.swiss. This makes SPAR the first Swiss grocer to integrate crypto payments on a nationwide scale. In the coming months, SPAR will expand this payment option to over 300 locations.
The partnership leverages Binance Pay, a cryptocurrency payment solution, and DFX.swiss, a decentralized exchange and custody platform. Customers can now use over 100 cryptocurrencies, including popular euro and dollar-pegged stablecoins, to purchase goods and services. The payment process is designed to be seamless: customers scan a DFX.swiss OpenCrypto QR code at checkout using the Binance Pay app, and the transaction is executed immediately. DFX.swiss then converts the cryptocurrency to Swiss francs (CHF) or another fiat currency for SPAR.
André Scherrer, Managing Director of SPAR Switzerland, believes that "smart wallet payment solutions" like those offered by DFX and Binance Pay represent the future of retail, stating that customers are increasingly demanding them. He also noted that merchants can save approximately two-thirds of commission fees compared to traditional card payments. The new system eliminates gas fees and simplifies settlements, allowing customers to easily use digital assets for everyday purchases while reducing transaction costs for merchants.
Cyrill Thommen, founder of DFX.swiss, emphasized the goal of making crypto payments feel as natural as any other form of payment. By integrating crypto payments into a mainstream retail service, SPAR is providing a practical application of digital currencies in Switzerland.
This move highlights Switzerland's position as a hub for blockchain innovation and the use of digital payments. In December 2024, Switzerland proposed including Bitcoin in its national reserves, alongside gold, to enhance financial stability. Cities like Zug and Lugano have been at the forefront of integrating Bitcoin into daily life, with Lugano aiming to make Bitcoin a de facto legal tender. As of April 2025, over 1,000 Swiss businesses were already accepting Bitcoin payments.
Previously, SPAR tested Bitcoin payments at a location in Zug using the Lightning Network through DFX Swiss's OpenCryptoPay solution. This enabled instant transactions at the point of sale via a QR code. Following the pilot phase, SPAR is now ready to implement Bitcoin acceptance as payment across Switzerland.
