Steak 'n Shake Says Bitcoin Has Lifted Sales 'Dramatically' in 9 Months
Steak ’n Shake began accepting Bitcoin nine months ago, resulting in a significant increase in same-store sales. The company now directs Bitcoin payments into a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, which funds employee bonuses, including $0.27 in Bitcoin per hour with a two-year vesting period. Steak ’n Shake holds about 161 BTC (approximately $11 million), despite the value being 26% below its purchase cost. The approach reflects a strategic, long-term commitment to Bitcoin as a corporate treasury asset, rather than speculation or marketing. This marks Steak ’n Shake as an early adopter among traditional businesses integrating Bitcoin into operations and employee compensation. Industry observers note that such use of Bitcoin in mainstream businesses could influence broader adoption, though current demand for Bitcoin payments among merchants remains low. Steak ’n Shake’s continued capital allocation and operational integration suggest it is leading in corporate Bitcoin adoption.

