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Crooked Pint Ale House USA Franchise For Sale

USA
Minimum Investment

$1,161,000

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Established

2011

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Franchise Units

17

payments

Minimum Investment

$1,161,000

payments

Franchise Fee

$45,000

payments

Total Investment Range

$2,073,000

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Home Based

No

Description

Invest in the Thriving Urban Pub Trend: Own a Crooked Pint Ale House Franchise

Are you searching for a proven, high-potential restaurant franchise opportunity in the booming full-service dining and craft beer market? Look no further than Crooked Pint Ale House. We are a fast-growing, contemporary urban pub concept that perfectly marries the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of a local neighborhood restaurant with the sophisticated, on-trend offerings of a modern alehouse. In an increasingly crowded bar and grill franchise landscape, Crooked Pint stands out with a unique, polished identity, a diverse, upscale-casual menu, and a robust selection of high-quality craft beer.

Our reputation is built on the simple but powerful formula: Good Food + Good Times = Good Business. This model has consistently driven strong results, with our proven business system generating an impressive average unit volume (AUV) for franchisees. We’ve redefined classic pub fare, offering our signature "Lucys" (an upscale twist on the famous Minnesota "Juicy Lucy" burger), unique appetizers, and hearty entrees that elevate us far beyond typical pub grub. Our commitment to a constantly rotating selection of 30+ craft beers ensures we stay ahead of consumer tastes and industry trends, making us a go-to destination for local patrons and craft beer enthusiasts alike.

Crooked Pint Ale House is strategically positioned to capture a large segment of the USA food and beverage market. We tap into the consumer demand for quality, local flavor, and an engaging dining experience that caters to families, sports fans, and large social groups. Our unique model and operational efficiencies provide franchisees with a distinct competitive advantage, minimizing the risks typically associated with a start-up restaurant. Join us and leverage our established brand, comprehensive support, and clear path to a potentially strong return on investment (ROI) in the dynamic hospitality industry.


Why Invest in this Franchise?

Investing in a Crooked Pint Ale House franchise offers a compelling proposition for entrepreneurs seeking a stable and scalable business in the high-demand casual dining sector:

  1. Proven High Average Unit Volume (AUV): Crooked Pint Ale House locations boast an average gross sales figure significantly above the industry average for similar bar franchises, demonstrating the model's high revenue-generating potential.

  2. Unique and Timeless Concept: The "urban pub" atmosphere—combining rustic comfort with modern amenities, multiple bars, and large viewing screens for sports—appeals to a broad demographic, ensuring year-round relevance and customer retention.

  3. Comprehensive Support System: From site selection and initial build-out to extensive pre-opening training and ongoing operational support, the franchisor provides a complete roadmap for success, minimizing the learning curve for new owners.

  4. Competitive Royalty Structure: With a very competitive ongoing royalty fee, franchisees retain more of their gross sales, enhancing profitability compared to many other national restaurant franchises.

  5. Strong Market Differentiation: The concept stands out with its dedication to a massive, rotating craft beer selection and an innovative menu that sets it apart from typical sports bars or casual dining chains.

  6. Scalability and Exclusive Territory: The brand offers the potential for multi-unit ownership and grants exclusive territories, providing a platform for long-term growth and market dominance.


Background


DetailInformation
Established Year
2011

Began Franchising
2012

Industry CategoryRestaurant, Full-Service, Urban Pub/Bar and Grill, Craft Beer

OwnershipCrooked Pint LLC, a concept of Hightop Hospitality.

Founders/Key ExecutivesIncludes Paul Dzubnar (CEO of Hightop Hospitality), Mary Jule Erickson, and John Hinz.

Company History/Brand JourneyLaunched in 2011 as a modern, craft-beer-focused pub concept in St. Paul, MN, by Paul Dzubnar, who leveraged his decades of experience in the restaurant industry (also associated with Green Mill Restaurants). The concept was quickly refined for franchising, beginning its expansion journey across the Midwest and beyond in 2012. The brand focuses on delivering a premium, yet casual, experience centered on unique food and an extensive craft ale selection.

Franchise Units (Approximate)Currently operates approximately 15-17 franchised units in the USA (Note: This is based on recent FDD data and may fluctuate). The system is fully franchise-operated, with zero corporate-owned locations, emphasizing the franchisor's commitment to the franchise model.


Market Presence in USAPrimarily concentrated in the Midwest region, but actively seeking experienced franchise partners for national expansion into high-growth markets across the United States.


Support Training

Crooked Pint Ale House is committed to equipping its franchisees with the knowledge and tools necessary for operational excellence and profitable growth.

  • Pre-Launch & Site Selection: The franchisor offers dedicated assistance with real estate selection, including site analysis and lease negotiation guidance. This support extends through facility design and comprehensive build-out assistance, ensuring your location meets brand standards efficiently.

  • Initial Training Program (Academic & On-the-Job): Franchisees and their operating partners/management team undergo an intensive, multi-week training program based at the corporate headquarters in Minneapolis, MN. This program involves:

    • Classroom Training: Covering business administration, POS system operation, financial management, inventory control, and customer service standards.

    • On-the-Job Training: Extensive real-world experience covering all aspects of daily operations, including kitchen flow, food preparation, beer dispensing and maintenance, front-of-house procedures, and staff management.

  • Operational Support: Franchisees receive a comprehensive, confidential Operations Manual detailing all proprietary systems, recipes, and procedures. Ongoing quality control inspections ensure brand consistency and high standards are maintained.

  • Marketing Assistance: The brand provides comprehensive initial advertising and promotional guidance for the grand opening. Franchisees gain access to a full catalog of professionally designed marketing materials (flyers, coupons, direct mail, digital assets) and continuous consultation on local market development and community outreach strategies. A Mandatory Ad Fund Fee ensures system-wide brand building and research & development

  • Ongoing Support: This includes administrative backup, continuous research and development of new menu items and systems, technology support for the specialized POS and back-office systems, and regular franchisee forums and ongoing training to share best practices and maintain industry-leading standards.


Ideal Candidate

The ideal Crooked Pint Ale House franchisee is an experienced, passionate, and financially capable entrepreneur ready to commit to the brand's vision.

  • Entrepreneurial Mindset & Passion: A hands-on, committed owner who is passionate about the restaurant and craft beer industry, understands local market dynamics, and genuinely believes in providing an exceptional customer experience centered around "Good Food and Good Times."

  • Business Background: Prior experience in the multi-unit food service, hospitality, or retail management industries is highly desirable, demonstrating strong leadership and operational expertise. The brand may also suit semi-absentee investors who can hire a strong, experienced operating partner.

  • Financial Capability: Must meet the minimum financial thresholds, showing the liquid capital and net worth necessary to secure financing and comfortably handle the substantial total initial investment.

    • Minimum Net Worth: Approximately $1,000,000

    • Minimum Liquid Assets: Approximately $300,000

  • Commitment to Growth: Individuals or groups interested in single-unit ownership with an eye toward multi-unit development and master franchise opportunities within their exclusive territory are highly valued.

  • Location Preference: Seeking partners who can identify and develop locations in high-traffic, visible retail or entertainment centers within metropolitan and suburban areas across the USA.


Financial Detail

Investing in a Crooked Pint Ale House is a significant financial commitment designed to generate a substantial return through a proven, high-performing model. (Note: All figures are estimates based on available FDD data and can vary significantly based on location, size, lease terms, and other factors. Prospective franchisees must refer to the most recent Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for exact and current figures.)


Financial ComponentEstimated AmountDetails
Franchise Fee$45,000Initial, one-time fee paid to the franchisor for the license, training, and pre-opening support.

Minimum Investment Required$1,161,000The low end of the estimated total initial investment range.

Total Investment Required$1,161,000 - $2,073,000Includes all estimated start-up costs from the initial fee to pre-opening expenses and initial working capital.

Infrastructure Cost (Leasehold Improvements)$650,000 - $850,000Costs for necessary tenant improvements, construction, and build-out of the facility.
Equipment & Fixtures$264,000 - $867,000Cost for kitchen equipment, trade fixtures, bar systems, seating, and décor.
Working Capital (Additional Funds - 3 Months)$50,000 - $75,000Funds required to cover initial operating expenses (labor, supplies, etc.) before the business reaches break-even.
Royalty Fees4% of Gross Sales
Ongoing fee paid to the franchisor, contributing to brand development and continuous support.


Marketing/Ad Fund Fees2% of Gross SalesMandated contribution to the system-wide advertising and marketing fund.


Expected ROI / Potential Revenue StreamsAUV up to $2.06 MillionThe average gross sales per unit is highly competitive. Revenue streams include dine-in food and non-alcoholic beverages, extensive high-margin craft beer/liquor sales, and catering/carry-out services. Potential Break-Even Time is heavily dependent on location, management, and initial build-out costs, typically discussed in detail with the Franchise Development Team.



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