Blackbird Labs Raises $50 Million for Crypto Dining App Expansion

Blackbird Labs has raised $50 million in Series B funding, led by Spark Capital, to enhance its blockchain-based restaurant loyalty and payment app, which is currently operational in over 600 locations. The app allows diners to earn FLY tokens for dining at participating restaurants, which can be used for payments and to unlock exclusive perks. CEO Ben Leventhal, a veteran in restaurant technology, emphasizes that their approach will not force crypto onto consumers but aims to create a user-friendly ecosystem. This funding round brings Blackbird's total funding to $85 million and will facilitate expansion into new markets beyond its current bases in New York, San Francisco, and Charleston. Investors also include Coinbase Ventures and Amex Ventures, suggesting confidence in the app's potential to innovate dining experiences. Despite the optimism, there remains skepticism about the necessity of blockchain in loyalty programs, as traditional systems are well-established.