As we continue introducing QSR Evolution Conference speakers, let’s meet Darren Spicer, former CEO and cofounder of Clutch Coffee Bar. Spicer sold Clutch to Dutch Bros earlier in the year (read about that here) and is now leading a personal enterprise called 110 Ventures, where he focuses on consulting, education, and strategic planning.
Spicer is a QSR Evolution veteran and no stranger to the agenda. This year, he’ll be joining a panel on “Getting Your First Investment, and Then Getting More.” Spicer will share his experience growing Clutch and also what it was like selling to Dutch Bros—the growing chain’s first M&A move to take over an entire brand.
You can register for QSR Evolution here
And explore the rest of the agenda here
In fitting fashion, what is one “Evolution” your company has made recently, or plans to make, that’s really helping drive performance.
The macro “evolution” that my company (Clutch Coffee Bar) had was becoming the first every acquisition of Dutch Bros Coffee in January.
Prior to the acquisition, one major evolution we had was in our “ground game” pre-opening. Instead of lightly touching communities, we doubled down on getting 2,000-plus free drinks into the community before we ever even soft launched. This targeted (and re-targeted) strategy was a game changer.
What’s your best piece of advice on how to get the most out of in-person conferences?
Be positively outgoing, be open to every connection, and follow-up with key people you meet. People remember those who are outgoing, ask questions and engage, and especially those who follow up.
What’s a theme, from AI to the consumer to value (or something else) you expect to hear about early, often, and after this year’s event?
I think we will hear a lot about the intersection of AI and service, with answers ranging widely across both ends of the spectrum. And then overlaying that with still maintaining an “experience” that is memorable.
