Growler USA, America’s Microbrew Pub, has signed a franchise agreement set to bring eight locations to Nashville, Tennessee. The first location is expected to open early next year, marking the first in the state. Former Outback Steakhouse International executive Greg Walther is the franchise partner and lead principal of the group.
Walther brings with him nearly three decades of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industry, most recently serving as a managing partner for the AmRest Group in Shanghai, China. He was also one of the founding members of Outback Steakhouse International, which was responsible for expanding the brand outside of the continental U.S., opening around 250 locations across more than 30 countries.
“Craft beer’s explosive growth encompasses the changing habits of consumers, who have come to embrace greater variety and more choice—making it an exciting time to get involved in this industry,” Walther says. “Growler USA offers the power of a national brand, but with a hometown feel. I’m excited to join the Growler USA family and look forward to opening our doors in Nashville.”
The Nashville deal is part of greater growth Growler USA has been experiencing, which includes the sale of more than 40 locations across 18 states. Pubs are expected to make debuts in metro areas of Phoenix, Denver, Tulsa, and several other cities by the end of this year. Founded just two years ago, Growler USA is experiencing rapid growth because of demand to support local craft brewers while providing an elevated experience for the consumer.
Growler USA is a microbrew pub dedicated to offering only American-made craft beverages and a food menu designed to celebrate the flavors of each drink. Each pub location offers a variety of regional and nationally recognized beverages, and remains True to the Brew with up to 100 taps of craft beer, hard cider, draught wine, and hand-crafted non-alcoholic beverages such as root beer and kombucha tea. The national franchise currently has locations in Eugene, Oregon; Charlotte, North Carolina; Seattle, Washington; and Houston and Austin, Texas.
“We look forward to bringing the Growler USA experience to Music City,” says Dan White, Growler USA CEO and founder. “The metropolitan area is experiencing significant growth, and we are confident that with Greg’s significant experience leading restaurants he is the right person to introduce Nashville to Growler USA.”
Leading-edge technology that simplifies operations for franchisees is integrated into the Growler USA business model, with technology-driven programs to simplify food preparation and beer monitoring operations. The franchise company’s sophisticated True to the Brew beverage storage and delivery system delivers inventory and cost control data directly to franchise owners in real time.
