World of Beer, the Tampa-based craft tavern featuring 550-plus craft and international beers, has continued its aggressive expansion throughout the U.S. This past year highlighted the opening of 22 taverns with the projection of more than 100 more to be open by the end of 2016. The craft tavern concept also announced it will open its first taverns in Minnesota, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Las Vegas this year.
World of Beer attributes much of its success this year to its ongoing menu innovation. Since the introduction and expansion of its Tavern Fare menu, World of Beer has seen a significant increase in same unit sales. The menu, which highlights beer as a key ingredient in many of its appetizers, flatbreads, sandwiches, burgers, and seasonal items like habanero pumpkin wings, has also elevated the brand's sales in various day parts including lunch, dinner, and happy hour.
"[This past year] was an excellent year of growth for World of Beer, as we have not only met but exceeded our goal of robust growth and in adding quality franchise partners," says Paul Avery, World of Beer CEO and president. "I'm proud of our exceptional franchise partners and corporate team that continue to push our brand and make it a leader in the craft beer industry. Last year's success has set us up for another promising year, and we look forward to expanding the World of Beer brand to new markets nationwide and overseas in markets such as China, India, and the Philippines."
Since opening the doors to its first location in Tampa in 2007, World of Beer has grown to 77 locations in 20 states across the U.S. Last year alone, the company entered several new markets, including Manhattan and Kentucky. Led by veterans of the restaurant and beer industry, World of Beer's leadership team drives the brand's success. The company's executives bring a diversity of knowledge and experience in past roles with organizations such as Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba's Italian Grill, P.F. Chang's China Bistro, and MillerCoors. With Avery spearheading the brand's future growth, World of Beer plans to open its first international location in Shanghai in 2016.
