Steak ’n Shake Raises Bitcoin Reserve to $15M as BTC Payments Increase Sales

Steak ’n Shake has added $5 million in Bitcoin to its Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, pushing total holdings to $15 million. At current prices, that equals about 167.7 BTC. The company said all Bitcoin payments made at its restaurants will continue to flow directly into the reserve.

The latest purchase follows a $10 million increase announced on Jan. 18. The company did not break down how much of the total comes from customer payments, treasury buys, or price moves. Steak ’n Shake said the goal is to link higher food quality, rising sales, and Bitcoin accumulation into one system.

The chain began accepting Bitcoin payments across its US locations in May.

Sales Growth Amid Crypto Adoption

Steak ’n Shake reported same store sales growth of 18% so far in 2026 across company owned and franchise locations. The company pointed to Bitcoin adoption as one of the main drivers behind the increase.

In a post on X, Steak ’n Shake said support from Bitcoin paying customers has helped it outperform rivals. The company framed its Bitcoin strategy as part of a wider shift in how it runs operations and manages cash.

Bitcoiner and financial accountant Rajat Soni said the approach gives companies staying power. He said holding Bitcoin can act as a buffer that helps businesses survive longer during tough periods, which is often where many fail.

Public Companies Build BTC Treasuries

Bitcoin accumulation by public companies has increased over the past year. Data from BitcoinTreasuries.Net shows public firms now hold about 1.13 million BTC, worth roughly $101.33 billion at current prices.

This trend has continued even as Bitcoin trades sideways. The cryptocurrency currently hovers near $90,000 and has not crossed $100,000 since Nov. 13, based on CoinMarketCap data.

Some well known Bitcoin supporters had expected higher prices by now. BitMEX co founder Arthur Hayes and BitMine chair Tom Lee previously pointed to targets near $250,000.

Bitcoin Bonuses for Employees

Steak ’n Shake is also extending Bitcoin use to staff. The company plans to offer Bitcoin bonuses to hourly workers at company run locations starting March 1.

Employees will earn a Bitcoin bonus worth $0.21 per hour worked. The bonus will vest over two years. The move adds another layer to the company’s push to build long term ties to Bitcoin.