Bitcoin usage increasing among businesses in North Carolina
February 14, 2026
Charlotte is experiencing a change in how payments are made, evolving from traditional cash and cards to include the rise of using cryptocurrency, specifically bitcoin. The adoption of bitcoin as a form of payment is gaining momentum in North Carolina, with over 400 businesses already accepting this digital currency. This shift is facilitated by a recent rollout from Square, which allows millions of businesses to seamlessly integrate bitcoin payments into their operations with ease.
One such business taking advantage of this new payment method is the Great Wagon Road Distilling Company, situated in Mecklenburg County. Owner Oliver Mulligan, with a family history rooted in distillation traditions, saw an opportunity to expand his business and reach new clients by embracing bitcoin payments. Mulligan’s personal connection to distilling, stemming from his grandfather’s history of making moonshine, fueled his journey to open the distillery years later. The Great Wagon Road Distillery serves as a testament to innovation and history, being the first to acquire a distillation permit in Mecklenburg County.
Bitcoin, a decentralized digital currency, presents a modern alternative to traditional banking systems. It enables individuals to own, trade, and transact online without the involvement of a central authority like a bank. Maxx Mannheimer, a bitcoin consultant at Sovereign Bitcoin Consulting, highlights the benefits of using bitcoin, emphasizing its stability as a financial instrument that shields earnings from the effects of inflation. At the distillery, customers can seamlessly pay with bitcoin through a quick QR code scan using Square, simplifying the payment process for both parties.
The adoption of bitcoin payments among businesses in Charlotte is a growing trend that is expected to persist and expand further. Mannheimer notes that the trend of moving towards digital forms of currency like bitcoin aligns with the broader shift towards digitalization across industries. Businesses like the Great Wagon Road Distillery, as part of the 90 businesses in Charlotte already accepting bitcoin, stand as pioneers in embracing this innovative payment method. By integrating bitcoin payments, businesses can reduce transaction fees, offer customers an additional payment option, and tap into a broader customer base.
Overall, the acceptance of bitcoin as a payment method signifies a new era in digital finance that is reshaping traditional payment systems. With the ease of integration, benefits for both businesses and customers, and a steady upward trend in adoption, the future for bitcoin payments in Charlotte looks promising. As more businesses like the Great Wagon Road Distillery embrace this change, the landscape of payment methods in North Carolina continues to diversify, marking a significant shift towards a more digital-focused financial ecosystem.
