In a notable move for cryptocurrency integration in commerce, Steak “n Shake has announced its expansion into El Salvador. This decision follows the chain”s impressive sales performance attributed to its adoption of Bitcoin as a payment method.
The announcement was made during the Bitcoin Histórico event held in San Salvador, where the company reaffirmed its commitment to the pro-Bitcoin environment of the nation. The shift toward utilizing Bitcoin has proven beneficial, with the chain reporting an 11% increase in same-store sales in the second quarter of 2025.
On May 16, 2025, Steak “n Shake initiated Bitcoin payments across all its locations in the United States. This rollout was highlighted by the introduction of a special Bitcoin Steakburger, aimed at celebrating the new payment option. Dan Edwards, the company”s COO, stated that they are dedicated to providing Bitcoin payment capabilities at all international locations.
This strategic pivot has drawn attention not only from customers but also from analysts, who believe that the rise in customer engagement is directly linked to the acceptance of Bitcoin. Additionally, the chain”s movement into El Salvador aligns with a broader trend of increasing merchant adoption of Bitcoin for daily transactions.
Interestingly, the company considered adding ether as a secondary payment option, which sparked considerable debate within the crypto community. A survey conducted among nearly 49,000 participants indicated that about 53% favored this potential addition. However, this proposal faced criticism from staunch Bitcoin advocates who questioned the decentralization of Ether compared to Bitcoin.
Ultimately, Steak “n Shake decided against introducing ether, reverting to a firm stance on Bitcoin payments. On October 11, following internal discussions, the company officially announced the cancellation of its ether plans, emphasizing its support for Bitcoin users. This decision contributed to a 15% growth in same-store sales reported in the third quarter.
As Steak “n Shake continues to adjust its business strategy to align with the Bitcoin community, its expansion into El Salvador reflects a growing consumer confidence in cryptocurrency payments. The company”s commitment to Bitcoin not only solidifies its reputation as a cryptocurrency-friendly merchant but also highlights the increasing influence of Bitcoin on traditional business models.
