The burger-to-Bitcoin approach has delivered measurable growth at the register
Steak ‘n Shake says its decision to accept Bitcoin has delivered strong business results. The burger chain began rolling out Bitcoin payments in May 2025, directing every crypto transaction into a corporate treasury reserve.
Nine months ago today, Steak n Shake launched its burger-to-Bitcoin transformation when we started accepting bitcoin payments. Our same-store sales have risen dramatically ever since.
Bitcoin payments for Steak n Shake burgers go into our Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, which then…
— Steak 'n Shake (@SteaknShake) February 16, 2026
Company leaders report that same-store sales climbed after the launch. Quarterly figures showed 11% growth in Q2 2025 and 15% in Q3 2025, outpacing several major fast-food competitors during that stretch. Executives have linked that momentum directly to customer interest in paying with Bitcoin.
Under the program, Bitcoin collected at participating locations is added to what the company calls its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. By late January, the reserve had reached roughly $15 million following additional allocations and changes in market value.
The company also introduced a Bitcoin-based incentive for hourly workers. Employees at company-operated stores can earn a small Bitcoin bonus per hour worked, with rewards vesting over two years. The initiative is supported by Fold and is aimed at engaging younger workers interested in digital assets.
Public data from BitcoinTreasuries indicates the chain holds about 161.6 BTC. At current prices, that stash is valued below its estimated average purchase price, leaving the reserve at an unrealized loss.
Despite market swings, the company continues to highlight the strategy as a long-term play. Management believes pairing a traditional cash-generating restaurant business with a Bitcoin reserve strengthens its brand and connects with a new generation of customers.
