Steak ‘n Shake’s Revolutionary Strategy: How Bitcoin is Driving Revenue Growth and Changing the Fast Food Industry

Steak ‘n Shake’s Revolutionary Strategy: How Bitcoin is Driving Revenue Growth and Changing the Fast Food Industry

American chain Steak ‘n Shake has revealed an unexpected secret that could change the way fast food businesses approach finances. After implementing an innovative “burger-to-Bitcoin” strategy, the traditional chain saw dramatic same-store sales growth while building a $15 million Bitcoin reserve. What’s behind this and what implications could it have for the entire industry?

Things have changed dramatically since Steak ‘n Shake began accepting Bitcoin at several of its locations in May 2025. The strategy involves all Bitcoin payments being immediately routed into the company’s Bitcoin reserve, creating a new source of revenue and capital. The chain claims that the move has led to a “dramatic” increase in same-store sales, although specific numbers were not disclosed.

The results are compelling – according to the latest data, Steak ‘n Shake is reporting 11% quarter-on-quarter revenue growth in the second quarter of 2025, and even 15% in the third quarter. This growth is outperforming major competitors such as McDonald's, Domino's, and Taco Bell, suggesting that an innovative approach to cryptocurrency payments may be key to strengthening its position in the market.

The chain is constantly increasing its Bitcoin reserve. According to BitcoinTreasuries, Steak ‘n Shake currently holds 161.6 BTC. In January 2025, it announced that its Bitcoin holdings had increased by $10 million, and a week later, it increased its total exposure to around $15 million. While its Bitcoin holdings are currently worth around $11 million at current prices, it’s important to note that the average purchase price of one coin is around $92,851, meaning the company is essentially in the red in terms of unrealized profits.

As part of its support for its employees, Steak ‘n Shake even plans to offer bitcoin bonuses – for example, $0.21 per hour worked, with a two-year grace period. This move is intended to attract Generation Z and millennials, who are more interested in cryptocurrencies and modern financial instruments.

What does this innovative strategy bring? It seems that the combination of fast food and cryptocurrencies can be not only a marketing ploy, but also a real way to grow and boost sales. However, it should be taken into account that bitcoin reserves are currently in the “red” – their value is lower than the purchase price, which may mean a temporary loss.

Steak ‘n Shake thus shows that bitcoin is not just a speculative asset, but can also be part of strategic growth. This case may inspire other companies to reconsider their approach to finance and innovation. Time will tell whether this path will prove successful in the long term or whether it will be a temporary trend. However, one thing is certain: fast food is starting to change, and cryptocurrencies are part of it.

*This is not an investment recommendation.

The Coingarage Team