2014
1
$40,000
$436,000
$721,000
No
Big Lost Meadery & Ranch & Roost offers a distinctive franchise opportunity that blends handcrafted meads, craft beers, and elevated comfort food in an immersive, themed environment. Founded in 2014 by Sam Clikeman in Gillette, Wyoming, the brand has expanded to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and is now seeking passionate entrepreneurs to join its growing network across the United States.
This unique concept appeals to consumers seeking authentic, small-batch beverages and flavorful cuisine in a rustic, Viking-inspired setting. With a commitment to quality and community engagement, Big Lost Meadery & Ranch & Roost provides a compelling business opportunity for those looking to invest in the food and beverage industry.
Unique Market Positioning: As one of the few mead-focused establishments in the U.S., Big Lost Meadery stands out in the craft beverage market.
Proven Concept: With successful locations in Gillette and Sioux Falls, the brand has demonstrated its appeal and operational viability.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support in operations, marketing, and product development.
Community Engagement: The brand's commitment to local events and community involvement fosters customer loyalty and brand recognition.
Established Year:
Big Lost Meadery was founded in 2014 in Gillette, Wyoming by Sam Clikeman, a passionate entrepreneur with a vision to create a unique beverage experience centered around handcrafted meads. The brand has steadily grown from a small, local meadery into a full-service restaurant and brewery concept.
Founders & Ownership:
The company remains privately owned by Sam Clikeman, who has guided its growth and brand identity. Clikeman’s dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement has positioned the brand as a recognizable name in the craft beverage and dining sector.
Brand Journey & Company History:
2014: Big Lost Meadery launched as a local mead production facility in Gillette, Wyoming.
Expansion into Hospitality: Over the years, it expanded operations to include Ranch & Roost, a restaurant concept complementing the meadery with elevated comfort food, creating a unique destination for both locals and travelers.
2022: The company started offering franchise opportunities, aiming to expand its presence across the United States while maintaining its core philosophy of small-batch quality and immersive, themed dining experiences.
Franchise Units:
As of now, Big Lost Meadery has 1 operational franchise unit, with plans to expand into new markets. The franchise model is designed to replicate the brand’s success while offering extensive support to new franchisees.
Market Presence in the USA:
Locations: Currently operating in Gillette, Wyoming, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Distribution: Beyond physical locations, the brand distributes select meads and beverages in multiple U.S. states, targeting craft beverage enthusiasts.
Industry Category: Food & Beverage, specializing in mead production, craft brewing, and themed restaurant experiences.
Other Key Information:
The brand emphasizes community engagement, hosting local events, tasting sessions, and educational workshops about mead and craft beverages.
Big Lost Meadery is recognized for its Viking-themed aesthetic and rustic ambiance, which enhances the customer experience and differentiates it from competitors in the brewery and restaurant market.
The combination of Ranch & Roost dining and mead-focused beverages positions the franchise as a destination brand with multiple revenue streams, including beverages, food, merchandise, and events.
Big Lost Meadery & Ranch & Roost offers a robust support system for its franchisees:
Pre-Launch Training: Comprehensive onboarding covering brand standards, operations, and product knowledge.
Operational Support: Assistance with site selection, design, and setup to ensure consistency across locations.
Marketing Assistance: Guidance on local marketing strategies, promotional events, and social media engagement.
Ongoing Support: Regular visits and communication from the corporate team to address challenges and implement improvements.
Product Development: Access to a portfolio of unique meads and craft beers, with opportunities for seasonal and limited-edition offerings.
The ideal franchisee for Big Lost Meadery & Ranch & Roost is:
Passionate about Craft Beverages: A genuine interest in mead, craft beer, and the food and beverage industry.
Experienced in Hospitality or Retail: Background in managing or owning food and beverage establishments is advantageous.
Community-Oriented: Eager to engage with and contribute to the local community through events and partnerships.
Financially Capable: Ability to invest in the franchise and manage operational costs effectively.
Location Preferences: Open to operating in diverse markets across the United States, with a focus on areas with a growing appreciation for craft beverages.
| Financial Item | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $436,000 – $721,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $436,000 |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out | Includes location setup, interior design, equipment, kitchen, and signage costs |
| Working Capital | Funds to cover first 3–6 months of operational expenses |
| Marketing Budget | Allocated for local promotions, launch events, and social media campaigns |
| Royalty Fees | Percentage of gross sales (negotiable per franchise agreement) |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location, market conditions, and operational efficiency |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 2–3 years |
| Revenue Streams | Sale of meads, craft beers, food menu, merchandise, events, and tasting experiences |
| Franchise Units | 1 existing unit, expanding across the USA |
