Growler USA purchased fast-casual concept Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli. Growler USA founder Dan White will lead both franchise companies as CEO, though the two brands will maintain their individual names and concepts.
“Smiling Moose attracts a very similar customer base as Growler USA, in that guests are looking for a unique, higher quality experience,” White says. “The brand has a strong infrastructure that offers great synergy with our franchise operations team, and I expect it will have a parallel growth path with Growler USA.”
Growler USA is a microbrew pub dedicated to offering only American-made craft beverages and a menu designed to celebrate the flavors of each drink. Each pub location remains True to the Brew, with up to 100 taps of craft beer, hard cider, draught wine, root beer, cold-pressed coffee, and kombucha tea. Since launching its franchise opportunity in 2014, Growler USA has experienced strong momentum, with more than 30 locations currently in development across more than 10 states, including Colorado, Texas, Washington, California, Florida, Arizona, and Virginia.
Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli has 18 units across seven states, with plans to reach 100 locations by 2020. Inspired by the adventuresome spirit of the Rocky Mountains, Smiling Moose delivers unique, bold flavor combinations served by a lively, engaging team. Guests can explore a wide variety of satisfying, house-made options that range from chopped salads and mouthwatering grilled or cool sandwiches, to savory soups, wraps, and breakfast sandwiches.
White is a seasoned business leader and entrepreneur with more than a decade of extensive franchise experience. Prior to Growler USA, White launched several successful startup companies, including Rapid Refill Ink, which sold 100 franchises in its first 10 months.
The Smiling Moose corporate team has relocated to the Growler USA national headquarters in Centennial, Colorado. Sue Daggett, former president of Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli, will serve as executive vice president.
“This was a strategic acquisition, as I think Smiling Moose Deli has a similar flair to Growler USA. It is a hometown, neighborhood place that has fantastic energy surrounding it,” White says. “The Growler USA development team is second to none, and I am confident they will provide the restaurant and franchise industry resources needed to grow Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli more aggressively and provide greater opportunities for new and existing franchisees.”
