Dutch Bros had more than 1,000 units as of the third quarter. | Photo: Shutterstock.
Dutch Bros is acquiring a small, regional coffee chain in the Carolinas with plans for conversion.
It’s a notable move by the 1,000-unit Dutch Bros, which has set a goal of reaching 2,029 locations by 2029.
The North Carolina-based Clutch Coffee Bar chain has agreed to be acquired by Dutch Bros for an undisclosed price, saying the brand’s 20 units will close on Friday at 4 p.m. After a temporary closure, the shops will be renovated and reopen as Dutch Bros locations, the company said.
Clutch Coffee founder and CEO Darren Spicer made the announcement on the chain’s website and social media pages, and the move was confirmed by Dutch Bros officials Wednesday.
“This was not a decision made lightly—rather it comes from a place of deep pride in what we’ve built together, and a belief that this next step will allow the culture, energy and community-first spirit you helped create continue to grow on an even bigger stage,” Spicer wrote on the website.
Like Dutch Bros, Clutch is a drive-thru concept. The smaller chain has operated for eight years across the Carolinas and the company said it “reached a natural point where exiting to Dutch Bros could accelerate its mission without compromising its values.
“Dutch Bros’ people-first approach, operational expertise, and long-term vision create an opportunity for team members and customers to thrive, while preserving the culture and community focus that fueled our success from the start,” Clutch said in the post.
Dutch Bros, similarly, described Clutch Coffee as a brand built on human connection.
“We deeply respect what the Clutch Coffee Bar leadership team has created and look forward to building on that strong foundation in the Carolinas,” Dutch Bros said in a statement.
Based in Tempe, Arizona, Dutch Bros is planning to add more food to its menu this year, in particular breakfast offerings.
The acquisition gives Dutch Bros more of a foothold in the Carolinas, where the chain operates only two units currently (one in North Carolina and one in South Carolina), though more are planned.
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