Avolta has launched a stablecoin payments pilot at its Level 2 Duty Free store in Zurich Airport.
Running from 9 to 25 September 2026, the trial lets travellers pay directly from their digital wallets.
By scanning a QR code, customers can complete purchases without relying on traditional card networks or intermediary payment providers.
Transactions settle directly between the customer and Avolta using blockchain technology, with funds transferred within seconds.
“This pilot tests a fundamentally different approach: direct value transfer between customer and merchant. Wallet-to-wallet payments have the potential to meaningfully change the payment infrastructure and we look forward to learning from customers in a live retail environment,”
said Yves Gerster, Chief Financial Officer of Avolta.
The payment solution was designed and developed by Avolta in collaboration with DevelopX.
Avolta said the pilot forms part of a broader effort to explore how emerging technologies can improve the traveller experience and shape the future of retail payments.
Featured image credit: Edited by Fintech News Switzerland, based on image by meshcube via Magnific
