Established
1979
Franchise Units
25
Minimum Investment
$350,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$650,000
Home Based
No
Description
Board and Brew is a fast-casual restaurant franchise that combines the timeless love for freshly made sandwiches with the growing demand for craft beer. Known for its signature gourmet sandwiches, laid-back coastal vibes, and locally inspired beer offerings, Board and Brew has carved out a strong niche in the fast-casual dining and craft beer market in the United States.
With an origin rooted in Southern California’s surf and skate culture, the brand offers more than just food—it delivers a lifestyle dining experience that resonates with millennials, families, professionals, and craft beer enthusiasts alike. The brand is well-regarded for its high-quality ingredients, unique menu, inviting atmosphere, and strong community engagement.
Positioned at the intersection of two booming industries—fast-casual restaurants and craft beer sales—Board and Brew provides an attractive and profitable franchise opportunity in the U.S. food and beverage market.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in a Board and Brew franchise means tapping into multiple revenue streams: gourmet sandwiches, salads, sides, catering, and a carefully curated selection of craft beers. The brand has successfully blended fast-casual convenience with an upscale yet approachable beer-and-dining concept, giving franchise owners a competitive edge.
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Established Brand Recognition: A trusted and growing name with decades of loyal customers.
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Booming Market: Fast-casual dining is one of the fastest-growing segments in the restaurant industry.
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Multi-Generational Appeal: A concept that appeals to college students, working professionals, families, and beer lovers.
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Strong Unit Economics: Low overhead compared to full-service restaurants with strong potential for high returns.
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Community-Centric Model: Events, local partnerships, and beer collaborations make each location a neighborhood favorite.
Background
- Established Year: 1979
- Franchising Commenced: 2012
- Founder: Tom Girard
- Headquarters: Carlsbad, California, USA
- Franchise Units: 25
- Industry Category: Food & Beverage – Fast-Casual Restaurant, Craft Beer
Board and Brew first opened in Del Mar, California in 1979. What started as a local sandwich shop with a quirky, fun atmosphere has grown into a multi-location franchise with a loyal customer base and a strong reputation for innovation. With over four decades of history, the brand has expanded beyond Southern California and is steadily increasing its presence across the U.S.
The company remains committed to preserving its authentic roots while scaling with modern operations, digital ordering systems, and sustainable business practices.
Support Training
Board and Brew is known for a "partnership-first" approach. They don't just hand you a manual; they walk you through the surf.
Pre-Launch Support: Expert assistance with site selection and lease negotiation to ensure your shop is in a high-traffic, high-visibility area. They also provide detailed architectural and design prototypes.
Comprehensive Training: A rigorous 110-hour training program is standard. This includes approximately 46 hours of classroom-style management training and 64 hours of on-the-job training at a flagship location.
Operational Guidance: You receive a "Business Playbook" covering everything from inventory management and "Secret Sauce" prep to staff hiring and retention.
Marketing & Tech: Franchisees gain access to a professional marketing toolbox, including social media assets, local store marketing (LSM) strategies, and a state-of-the-art POS system for seamless reporting.
Ongoing Mentorship: Regular field visits from corporate consultants help you optimize your P&L statements and maintain brand standards.
Ideal Candidate
The brand is protective of its culture. They aren't just looking for a check; they are looking for a "culture carrier."
The "Vibe" Factor: You don't need to be a surfer, but you must appreciate a relaxed, friendly, and community-centric business model.
Business Acumen: While restaurant experience is a plus, a background in management, operations, or corporate leadership is highly valued.
Community Connection: The best Board and Brew owners are those who want to be the "mayor" of their neighborhood—sponsoring local teams and hosting community events.
Financial Capability: Candidates should have a strong credit profile and meet the liquid capital requirements to ensure a smooth runway during the first year of operation.
Location Preference: Suburban hubs, coastal towns, and high-density "work-play" developments in states like California, Arizona, and Nevada are prime targets.
Financial Detail
| Financial Aspect | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $350,000 – $650,000 |
| Minimum Investment | $350,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Ad Fund | 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out | $200,000 – $400,000 |
| Working Capital | $30,000 – $70,000 |
| Expected ROI | 20% – 30% annually |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 months |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, craft beer sales, merchandise |