Steak ’n Shake Sees 15% Sales Growth from Bitcoin Payments
Steak ’n Shake, the U.S.-based fast-food chain, has made Bitcoin a key part of its business. The company started accepting Bitcoin (BTC) payments through the Lightning Network in May 2025. After six months, same-store sales have risen by more than 15%. The company credits lower processing fees, crypto-focused customer engagement, and its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR) for this growth.
Building a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve
On November 1, 2025, Steak ’n Shake launched its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. All Bitcoin payments from customers go directly into this reserve instead of being converted to cash. This approach differs from companies like MicroStrategy or Tesla, which buy Bitcoin separately. Steak ’n Shake builds its reserve through customer payments, avoiding speculation risks.
- The company donates 210 sats from every “Bitcoin Meal” to the OpenSats project.
- Customers uploading receipts can earn $5 in BTC rewards via Fold.
- Bitcoin-themed products include the “Bitcoin Steakburger” and “Stack ’n Sats.”
The move to Lightning payments also cut processing fees nearly in half. Early supporters included Jack Dorsey, who shared photos of paying with Bitcoin at the chain.
Plans for Expansion and Industry Impact
The company sees Bitcoin as central to its growth and plans to expand into El Salvador. This country was the first to make Bitcoin legal tender. Steak ’n Shake aims to use Bitcoin revenue to improve food quality, remodel stores, and open new locations.
Steak ’n Shake is among the first major fast-food brands to convert Bitcoin payments into a corporate reserve. This strategy relies on customer behavior to build Bitcoin holdings gradually. Its success could influence other chains considering Bitcoin integration.
