2017
9
$99,000
$25,000
$337,000
No
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.
Unique Business Model: Combines the allure of a bookstore with the social environment of a brewpub, appealing to a diverse demographic.
Low Overhead Costs: By not brewing on-site, operational expenses are significantly reduced, leading to higher profit margins.
Community Engagement: The free book exchange program and charitable donations foster a strong community connection, encouraging customer loyalty.
Scalable Concept: The compact size and adaptable nature of the business make it suitable for various locations, including strip malls and urban centers.
Proven Success: Existing locations have demonstrated consistent customer traffic and satisfaction, indicating a viable and sustainable business model.
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:
As of 2025, the company operates 9 locations in the U.S., with 5 franchised units and 4 corporate-owned locations.
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:
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.
The model combines community engagement, social interaction, and literary culture, distinguishing it from traditional bars or bookstores.
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:
Books & Brews is privately owned and operates primarily in the Food & Beverage and Retail sectors.
The company has a strong local market presence in Indiana, particularly in Indianapolis and surrounding towns.
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:
Industry Category: Food & Beverage / Retail / Entertainment Hybrid
Unique Value Proposition: Combines craft beer taprooms with curated book selections, creating a one-of-a-kind experiential venue.
Competitive Advantage: Unlike typical bars or bookstores, Books & Brews leverages community involvement and affordable literature to attract a diverse demographic.
Other Relevant Information:
Books & Brews is recognized for its charitable initiatives, often donating a portion of book sale proceeds to local organizations.
The franchise supports local artists and events, further embedding each location into its community.
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.
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design to ensure brand consistency.
Training: Comprehensive one-week training program at the flagship location in Indianapolis, covering operations, customer service, and inventory management.
Operational Support: Ongoing guidance on daily operations, staffing, and supplier relationships to maintain efficiency and quality.
Marketing Support: Access to marketing materials, promotional strategies, and social media support to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
Community Engagement: Assistance in establishing local partnerships and charitable initiatives to strengthen community ties.
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 | 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) |
