2017
3
$250,000
$40,000
$1,500,000
No
The Crafthouse franchise is redefining America’s casual dining and craft beer experience. Known for its modern gastropub-style ambiance, innovative food menu, and carefully curated craft beer selections, Crafthouse has quickly positioned itself as a go-to destination for social gatherings, family outings, and nightlife enthusiasts. The franchise blends the authenticity of locally sourced beers with chef-inspired dishes, offering guests a unique, memorable dining and entertainment experience.
With the rising popularity of the craft beer industry in the United States and the growing demand for elevated casual dining, Crafthouse has carved out a strong market position. Its contemporary brand identity, diverse menu, and community-driven concept provide franchisees with a profitable and scalable business model. Entrepreneurs looking to enter the food and beverage sector with a proven franchise system will find Crafthouse to be a high-potential investment opportunity.
High-Growth Industry: The U.S. craft beer market has been expanding steadily, with consumers prioritizing unique, premium, and locally sourced experiences. Crafthouse leverages this demand with exclusive beer partnerships.
Strong Brand Recognition: The franchise is known for its upscale yet approachable environment that attracts families, millennials, and working professionals.
Multiple Revenue Streams: Beyond dine-in, Crafthouse offers catering, private events, and seasonal promotions that boost profitability.
Comprehensive Franchise Support: From setup to daily operations, franchisees receive extensive training and guidance to ensure long-term success.
Scalable Business Model: The concept works in diverse locations, including urban centers, suburban markets, and high-traffic entertainment districts.
Founded: 2017
Founders: A team of restaurateurs and craft beer enthusiasts dedicated to creating a premium, community-focused gastropub experience.
Brand Origin & Journey:
Crafthouse began as a single gastropub in Northern Virginia with a vision to combine craft beer, chef-inspired cuisine, and a modern social dining environment. The founders focused on crafting a unique atmosphere where guests could enjoy high-quality food, locally sourced beers, and an engaging, social experience. The concept quickly gained local popularity, thanks to its combination of contemporary design, welcoming environment, and innovative menu.
Evolution to Franchise Model:
Recognizing the growing U.S. craft beer market and the strong demand for elevated casual dining experiences, Crafthouse developed a franchising strategy to expand nationally. The franchise model was designed to allow investors to replicate the original concept while benefiting from a proven operational system, comprehensive training, and ongoing marketing support.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
Current Units: Three company-owned locations in Northern Virginia (Fairfax, Arlington, Reston).
Expansion Plans: In 2018, Crafthouse signed a $250 million development agreement to open up to 100 new franchise locations across the United States.
Industry Category: Casual dining and craft beer gastropubs.
Target Market: High-traffic urban and suburban areas, with a focus on consumers seeking quality dining experiences paired with craft beer offerings.
Ownership & Mission:
Crafthouse remains privately owned by its founding team. The brand emphasizes delivering a consistent, high-quality experience across all locations, building community connections, and maintaining an innovative menu with seasonal offerings. The mission is to combine craft beer culture with elevated casual dining, creating memorable experiences for customers while providing a profitable and scalable business opportunity for franchisees.
Key Highlights:
Focus on locally sourced craft beers and sustainable ingredients.
Multiple revenue streams: dine-in, catering, private events, takeout, and beverage sales.
Designed for scalable growth in the rapidly expanding U.S. craft beer and casual dining market.
Proven operational model with structured training, marketing support, and operational guidance for franchisees.
Crafthouse ensures that every franchisee is set up for success by offering a comprehensive support system:
Pre-Launch Support
Site selection and territory analysis.
Assistance with lease negotiations.
Guidance with restaurant design, layout, and equipment sourcing.
Initial Training
Intensive training programs for owners and staff covering operations, menu preparation, craft beer knowledge, and customer service.
Hands-on training at an existing Crafthouse location.
Operational Support
Step-by-step operations manual.
Inventory management systems.
Technology support, including POS systems and reporting tools.
Marketing & Branding Support
National marketing campaigns.
Localized digital marketing strategies.
Social media and PR support for community engagement.
Ongoing Support
Field representatives for continuous operational audits and performance reviews.
Menu innovations and seasonal promotions.
Networking opportunities with other franchisees through conferences and meetings.
The Crafthouse franchise is designed for motivated entrepreneurs and investors who are passionate about the food and beverage industry and committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences. The ideal franchisee possesses a blend of business acumen, leadership skills, and a love for craft beer and casual dining.
Business & Management Experience
Prior experience in restaurant management, hospitality, or multi-unit operations is highly valued.
Strong operational and financial management skills to oversee day-to-day business activities and ensure profitability.
Capable of leading a team and implementing structured processes for consistency and quality control.
Passion for Craft Beer and Dining
A genuine interest in craft beverages and culinary innovation.
Enthusiasm for creating a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere.
Commitment to upholding the Crafthouse brand standards and delivering memorable customer experiences.
Financial Capability
Ability to meet the minimum investment requirements (typically $250,000+ in liquid assets).
Sufficient working capital to cover operational expenses during the initial growth phase.
Willingness to invest in marketing, infrastructure, and staff training to maximize revenue potential.
Leadership & People Skills
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to manage staff, engage with customers, and build community partnerships.
Ability to recruit, train, and retain a high-performing team aligned with the franchise’s standards.
Location & Market Awareness
Understanding of the local market and its potential for craft beer and casual dining growth.
Preference for high-traffic urban centers, suburban shopping districts, or entertainment areas.
Willingness to participate in local marketing initiatives and community events to increase brand visibility.
Entrepreneurial Spirit & Commitment
Long-term vision for growth and willingness to follow a proven franchise system.
Dedication to operational excellence, brand consistency, and continuous improvement.
Ability to embrace innovation while maintaining the core Crafthouse values.
The ideal Crafthouse franchisee is a financially capable, motivated individual with hospitality or business management experience, a passion for craft beer and high-quality dining, strong leadership abilities, and a commitment to growing the brand in their local market. This combination ensures both the franchisee and Crafthouse thrive in a competitive U.S. casual dining and craft beer market.
| Financial Category | Details (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $750,000 – $1,500,000 |
| Minimum Investment | $250,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Franchise Units | Multiple locations in the USA |
| Infrastructure Cost | $300,000 – $800,000 |
| Marketing Budget | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 5% – 6% of gross sales |
| Expected ROI | 20% – 30% annually |
| Break-even Time | 18 – 36 months |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-in, craft beer sales, catering, private events, takeout, seasonal promotions |
