Binance has partnered with CryptoConvert to offer South Africans a new way to pay for their groceries with crypto, at all Pick n Pay stores nationwide.

To use this feature, Binance users must link their wallets to the CryptoQR application, which scans the QR code presented by the Pick n Pay cashier and activates a direct payment from Binance wallets.

A Binance spokesperson noted that payments are routed through the CryptoQR app due to the current configuration of the store's infrastructure, which cannot directly accept payments from the Binance app. The CryptoQR software acts as an intermediary, converting the store’s generic QR code into a format compatible with the Binance wallet. Despite this additional step, Binance claims the feature is witnessing significant adoption. Specific numbers however remain undisclosed.

In February, CryptoConvert launched a solution that allowed South Africans to pay for groceries at Pick n Pay stores using Bitcoin, but this relied on users downloading and funding a separate Lightening-enabled Bitcoin wallet. In response to users’ feedback, the company partnered with crypto exchanges VALR and Luno to enable users of these exchanges to make direct payments through their wallets.

This development highlights the growing crypto-friendly environment in South Africa, especially after the regulatory clarity provided by the South African Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). NODO recently reported South Africa’s adoption of the Crypto Asset Reporting Framework, as well as its latest licencing efforts for Crypto Asset Service Providers.