The Brass Tap Sets Its Sights on Growth in California’s Bay Area

The Brass Tap* has made a name for itself as a rapidly growing brand since its founding in 2008, and even more so after experiencing a $400,000 increase in its AUVs, bringing 2018’s top quartile average sales to an impressive $1.6 million.

 In addition to its extensive list of unique, local beers on tap, an elevated menu and strong ties to its local communities, The Brass Tap is an ideal opportunity for franchisees looking to bring a neighborhood gathering spot to their community. The welcoming and creative craft beer restaurant concept is now specifically looking to bring its inimitable offerings to patrons in the California Bay Area.

 While the franchise continues to expand with nearly 50 units open and over 40 units in development, each store remains localized to its community by offering a selection of locally sourced craft beer, with over 200 beers on the menu and up to 60 on tap.  The Brass Tap also offers craft cocktails, select wines and, more recently, and expanded food menu at every location. The brand is targeting the California Bay Area thanks to several factors; in particular, the growing popularity of craft beer in the market.

 “Northern California is a huge hub for craft beer, with numerous craft beer breweries in the area, making it ideal for our concept to plant its roots in the local community,” said Jamie Cecil, Vice President of Franchise Development for The Brass Tap. “Surprisingly, it’s not as easy to get craft beer in less densely populated pockets in the market and that’s why we would love to bring The Brass Tap to some of those communities.”

 The brand is looking to develop in Santa Rosa, Pleasanton and several other suburbs around the Bay Area as well as in more densely populated areas such as San Francisco. In addition to Northern California markets, the brand is also looking to develop in Bakersfield and Corona. Market capacity for the smaller pockets of the states could be three to four stores, with additional capacity closer to 10 stores in San Francisco and capacity for hundreds of locations throughout The Golden State.

 The brand is looking for both single- and multi-unit operators and currently has two open locations in California, in Rocklin and Vacaville, in addition to a recent signing in Fresno. Each location is between 3,200 to 3,600 square feet, including a 400- to 600-square-foot outdoor patio. The Brass Tap’s smaller footprint means lower buildout and labor costs for franchisees.

 “The straightforward and simple ownership model results in successful and happy franchise businesses,” said Cecil. “Our main priority is to ensure the success of our franchisees and so executive leadership provides support that really does start on day one. Everything from site selection, to design and layout, to marketing, training and ongoing operational support are priorities for us. We’re here for our franchisees every step of the way.”

The initial start-up investment for a single-unit deal of The Brass Tap ranges between $780,700 to $1,318,30 with a franchise fee of $37,500. To learn more about franchise opportunities with The Brass Tap, visit https://thebrasstapfranchise.com/.