Certain hourly employees at the national fast-food chain Steak ‘n Shake will soon have the opportunity to receive a unique bonus that is tied to the cryptocurrency Bitcoin. This initiative, developed through a partnership with the Fold app, aims to reward hourly staff with a bonus of $0.21 for every hour worked. Starting March 1, this Bitcoin bonus will begin rolling out at company-operated restaurants. However, employees will face a two-year vesting period before they can access their earnings.
In a recent social media announcement, Steak ‘n Shake emphasized its commitment to supporting employees, suggesting that such investments lead to enhanced service for customers. “Thank you, @Fold_app, for the assist. We take care of our employees; they, in turn, take care of customers; and the results take care of themselves,” the company stated.
The decision to implement Bitcoin bonuses follows Steak ‘n Shake’s previous announcement that it would accept Bitcoin as a payment method where legally permissible. All Bitcoin revenue from these transactions is funneled into the company’s Strategic Bitcoin Reserve. The fast-food chain has also revealed that it increased its Bitcoin exposure by $10 million in notional value, suggesting a growing commitment to the cryptocurrency.
The bonus plan estimates that an employee working 40 hours per week could accumulate approximately $436.80 worth of Bitcoin annually. Given the volatility of Bitcoin’s value, the actual worth of this bonus will remain uncertain until it vests after two years.
Steak ‘n Shake has reportedly benefited from its investment in cryptocurrency, enjoying a 50% reduction in processing fees on Bitcoin transactions. Moreover, the chain experienced a notable 10% rise in same-store sales shortly after implementing Bitcoin as a payment option. The company is strategically targeting a younger demographic that is more likely to engage with cryptocurrency.
During a Bitcoin conference in May 2025, Steak ‘n Shake executive Dan Edwards highlighted the advantages of utilizing Bitcoin. He noted the speed of transactions compared to traditional credit card payments and emphasized the financial benefits for both customers and the company: “This means that Bitcoin is a win for the customer, it’s a win for us as the merchant, and it’s a win for you in the Bitcoin community,” Edwards stated.
As the fast-food industry continues to explore innovative payment solutions, Steak ‘n Shake’s foray into Bitcoin bonuses reflects a growing trend toward integrating cryptocurrency into traditional business models. This approach not only incentivizes employees but also aims to engage a tech-savvy customer base in an evolving financial landscape.
