Established
2017
Franchise Units
9
Minimum Investment
$99,000
Franchise Fee
$25,000
Total Investment Range
$337,000
Home Based
No
Description
Books & Brews is a distinctive brewpub and bookstore concept that seamlessly blends the charm of a used bookstore with the ambiance of a craft beer taproom. Founded in Indianapolis, Indiana, this innovative establishment offers patrons a space to enjoy quality craft beers while immersing themselves in a curated selection of books. The concept operates on a unique model where customers can take a book home for free, with the option to purchase books for just $3. This approach fosters a strong sense of community and encourages repeat visits.
The franchise model focuses on maintaining a low overhead by eliminating the need for in-house brewing facilities. Instead, franchisees offer a selection of flagship beers sourced from approved vendors. This strategy allows for quick setup, reduced operational costs, and a streamlined menu, making it an attractive option for potential investors seeking a profitable and community-oriented business.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
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Unique Business Model: Combines the allure of a bookstore with the social environment of a brewpub, appealing to a diverse demographic.
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Low Overhead Costs: By not brewing on-site, operational expenses are significantly reduced, leading to higher profit margins.
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Community Engagement: The free book exchange program and charitable donations foster a strong community connection, encouraging customer loyalty.
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Scalable Concept: The compact size and adaptable nature of the business make it suitable for various locations, including strip malls and urban centers.
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Proven Success: Existing locations have demonstrated consistent customer traffic and satisfaction, indicating a viable and sustainable business model.
Background
Established Year:
Books & Brews was founded in 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Founders:
The company was founded by Jason Wuerfel and his team, who envisioned creating a space where communities could gather, enjoy craft beer, and access affordable books.
Franchise Units / Expansion:
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As of 2025, the company operates 9 locations in the U.S., with 5 franchised units and 4 corporate-owned locations.
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While the original concept started in Indianapolis, the brand has expanded into other regions such as Ohio, reflecting a gradual but steady growth strategy.
Brand Journey & Company History:
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Books & Brews started as a unique hybrid of a brewpub and a used bookstore, providing patrons with an opportunity to take books home for free or purchase them inexpensively.
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The model combines community engagement, social interaction, and literary culture, distinguishing it from traditional bars or bookstores.
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Over the years, the company has emphasized low overhead costs by sourcing beers from approved vendors rather than brewing in-house, making the franchise model more accessible and scalable.
Ownership & Market Presence:
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Books & Brews is privately owned and operates primarily in the Food & Beverage and Retail sectors.
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The company has a strong local market presence in Indiana, particularly in Indianapolis and surrounding towns.
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Each location is designed to maintain a community-oriented environment, fostering loyalty and repeat customer engagement through book exchanges, charity partnerships, and community events.
Industry Category & Unique Positioning:
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Industry Category: Food & Beverage / Retail / Entertainment Hybrid
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Unique Value Proposition: Combines craft beer taprooms with curated book selections, creating a one-of-a-kind experiential venue.
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Competitive Advantage: Unlike typical bars or bookstores, Books & Brews leverages community involvement and affordable literature to attract a diverse demographic.
Other Relevant Information:
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Books & Brews is recognized for its charitable initiatives, often donating a portion of book sale proceeds to local organizations.
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The franchise supports local artists and events, further embedding each location into its community.
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The business model is franchise-ready, with standardized operational processes, pre-launch support, and marketing strategies that allow new franchisees to replicate the brand’s success.
Support Training
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure brand consistency.
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Training: Comprehensive one-week training program at the flagship location in Indianapolis, covering operations, customer service, and inventory management.
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Operational Support: Ongoing guidance on daily operations, staffing, and supplier relationships to maintain efficiency and quality.
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Marketing Support: Access to marketing materials, promotional strategies, and social media support to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
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Community Engagement: Assistance in establishing local partnerships and charitable initiatives to strengthen community ties.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal Books & Brews franchisee is an individual who is passionate about community engagement and has a strong interest in the food and beverage industry. They should possess excellent interpersonal skills, a commitment to customer service, and the ability to manage operations efficiently. A background in hospitality or retail management is beneficial, but not required. Potential franchisees should have the financial capacity to invest in the business and a desire to contribute positively to their local community.
Financial Detail
| Financial Detail | Amount / Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $99,000 – $337,000 | Depends on location, build-out, and equipment costs |
| Franchise Fee | $25,000 | One-time fee for franchise rights |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of monthly sales | Ongoing fee for brand use and support |
| Marketing / Advertising Fee | 1% of monthly sales | Supports national & local marketing campaigns |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies by location | Includes furniture, fixtures, signage, and equipment |
| Working Capital | Part of total investment | Needed to cover operational expenses in the first months |
| Expected ROI | Variable; potential profitability within first year | Dependent on location, management, and sales volume |
| Break-even Time | 12 – 18 months | Typical for U.S. franchise units |
| Revenue Streams | Craft beer sales, food menu, book sales, community events | Multiple income sources enhance profitability |
| Franchise Units (Current) | 5 franchised units | Out of 9 total locations (2025) |