How Speed is Driving QSR Growth at Steak ’n Shake with Bitcoin

Why QSRs are turning to Bitcoin?

For QSRs, every second counts. Long queues, failed transactions, or high processing fees directly impact customer satisfaction and margins. Traditional payment systems like credit cards, debit cards, and mobile wallets often involve:

• High transaction fees (2–3% on average)
• Settlement delays (sometimes 2–5 days for funds to clear)
• Limited global accessibility

Bitcoin solves many of these pain points when paired with a robust Bitcoin and Stablecoin processor like Speed:

• Near-instant transactions with the Lightning Network
• 50–90% lower fees compared to credit cards
• Global reach for customers, regardless of borders or banks

For merchants like Steak ‘n Shake, this translates to higher efficiency, reduced costs, and happier customers.

Steak ‘n Shake: A case study in Bitcoin adoption

In 2024, Steak ’n Shake became one of the first major QSR brands to adopt Bitcoin payments through Speed. The move was both a response to consumer demand, particularly from Gen Z and Millennial customers who value digital-first payments, and a strategic investment into operational efficiency.

By enabling Bitcoin payments in-store and online, Steak ’n Shake gained:

• Faster checkout lines: Customers pay instantly with Bitcoin over Lightning.
• Increased customer satisfaction: Tech-savvy and crypto-enthusiast diners prefer businesses that accept Bitcoin.
• International brand recognition: Bitcoin payments attract travelers and global audiences who want universal, borderless payments.
• New revenue streams: Crypto native customers are choosing places with Bitcoin and other crypto adoption.
• Reduced dependency: Costly intermediaries like banks and card networks are no longer required.

This decision positioned Steak ’n Shake as an innovator among QSR peers, appealing to a new generation of diners who want their burgers fast and their payments faster.

Social proof: Bitcoin + Steak ’n Shake in action

The excitement around Steak ’n Shake’s adoption of Bitcoin is evident on social platforms. Speed highlighted the milestone.

From burgers to Bitcoin — Steak ’n Shake is proving that fast food can also mean fast payments. With Speed, they’re serving up instant, low-cost Bitcoin transactions to customers worldwide.

Over 300 Steak ‘n Shake locations across the U.S. are now accepting Bitcoin, powered by Speed Payment Gateway. Pay for your burgers, shakes and fries with BTC via the Lightning Network—fast, secure, and easy.
Learn more: https://t.co/xsqfbtjN2p

— Speed ⚡ Bitcoin lightning payment platform (@speed_LN) May 23, 2025

This isn’t just marketing hype—it reflects a growing trend in the QSR sector where payments become part of the brand experience.

Why Bitcoin appeals to QSR customers?

The success of Steak ’n Shake’s move can also be understood by looking at consumer behavior trends:

1. Gen Z adoption
   Studies show that nearly 40% of Gen Z consumers are already experimenting with crypto. For a demographic that values both speed and digital-native experiences, Bitcoin payments align perfectly.
2. Global footprint
   Many QSR chains attract international customers, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Bitcoin provides a universal payment method without the hassle of exchange rates or foreign transaction fees.
3. Loyalty through innovation
   Customers are more likely to stick with brands that offer the latest and most convenient payment methods.

For Steak ’n Shake, Bitcoin is not just about payments—it’s about creating brand loyalty through innovation.

The role of Speed Payment innovation

While Bitcoin itself is revolutionary, the infrastructure to make it practical for QSRs comes from Speed, a payment processor designed for Bitcoin and Stablecoin payments. Speed helps merchants accept crypto seamlessly, without worrying about technical complexity.

Here’s how Speed makes Bitcoin work at Steak ’n Shake and beyond:

• Lightning Network integration: Payments are completed in seconds, not minutes.
• Multi-asset support: Beyond Bitcoin, merchants can also accept stablecoins like USDT or USDC for flexibility.
• Plug-and-Play setup: Easy API and checkout solutions for QSRs with high transaction volumes.
• Merchant-friendly features: No chargebacks, transparent fees, and settlement options.
• Global merchant network: Over 30,000+ merchants with visibility worldwide.
• 99% uptime: Ensures payments never disrupt busy QSR operations.

For QSR operators, this means Bitcoin payments are as seamless as swiping a card, without the cost or complexity.

Bitcoin’s competitive advantage for QSRs

Compared to traditional card-based payments, Bitcoin unlocks key benefits for QSR operators like Steak ‘n Shake:

• Reduced fees: Card networks often charge 2-3% per transaction. Bitcoin transactions via Speed have reduced the fee by 60%.
• Instant settlement: No waiting for days for funds to clear; QSRs get access to working capital immediately.
• Customer loyalty: By offering innovative payment options, Steak ‘n Shake positions itself as a forward-thinking brand.
• Global appeal: With Bitcoin accepted worldwide, travelers and international students can easily dine without worrying about card compatibility.

Powering the payments via #LightningNetwork. Thank you @SteaknShake for joining in — Speed.#BitcoinConference2025 https://t.co/pXbvWyQx9p

— Speed ⚡ Bitcoin lightning payment platform (@speed_LN) May 28, 2025

Why businesses should follow Steak ‘n Shake’s lead?

Steak ‘n Shake’s adoption of Bitcoin is not just a one-off experiment; it’s a signal to the broader QSR and retail industry. Businesses that adopt Bitcoin early are likely to gain:

• A first-mover advantage in their sector.
• New revenue streams from global crypto users.
• Operational efficiency from faster, cheaper settlements.

Payment processors like Speed make it practical, secure, and scalable for any QSR or merchant to replicate this success.

Future of QSR payments with Bitcoin and Speed

The QSR industry thrives on volume and customer experience. Bitcoin payments, combined with Speed’s technology, are paving the way for a new payment era. Steak ’n Shake is not an isolated example.

The broader QSR industry is beginning to notice the advantages of crypto payments:

• Taco Bell and Chipotle have tested blockchain loyalty programs.
• Starbucks integrates digital wallets that could easily extend to crypto.
• Small and medium QSRs are adopting Bitcoin to cut costs and attract global customers.

With Speed providing a unified crypto payment rail, the barriers for adoption are lower than ever. This is showcasing how Bitcoin can be more than an investment asset; it’s a functional payment tool that drives real-world business growth.

Conclusion

The story of Steak ‘n Shake and Bitcoin illustrates a bigger trend that is QSRs and global merchants are moving toward faster, smarter, and borderless payment solutions. With Speed as the backbone, Steak ‘n Shake has not only improved checkout efficiency but also positioned itself as an innovator in the fast-food industry.

As more QSRs and merchants embrace Bitcoin and Stablecoins through Speed, the future of dining will be faster, more connected, and more customer-friendly.