Growler USA® Acquires Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli

Growler USA Founder, CEO Expects Synergy to Spark Fast-Paced Growth for both Denver-based Franchise Brands

DENVER – (April 20, 2015) – Growler USA® -  America’s Microbrew Pub, announced today it has purchased fast-casual concept Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli. Growler USA founder Dan White will lead both franchise companies as CEO, though the two brands will maintain their individual names and concepts.

“Smiling Moose attracts a very similar customer base as Growler USA, in that guests are looking for a unique, higher quality experience,” said Dan White. “The brand has a strong infrastructure that offers great synergy with our franchise operations team, and I expect it will have a parallel growth path with Growler USA.”

Growler USA is a microbrew pub dedicated to offering only American-made craft beverages and a menu designed to celebrate the flavors of each drink. Each pub location remains True to the Brew™, with up to 100 taps of craft beer, hard cider, draught wine, root beer, cold-pressed coffee and kombucha tea. Since launching its franchise opportunity in 2014, Growler USA has experienced strong momentum, with more than 30 locations currently in development across more than 10 states, including Colorado, Texas, Washington, California, Florida, Arizona and Virginia.

Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli has 18 units across seven states, with plans to reach 100 locations by 2020.Inspired by the adventuresome spirit of the Rocky Mountains, Smiling Moose delivers unique, bold flavor combinations served by a lively, engaging team. Guests can explore a wide variety of satisfying, house-made options that range from chopped salads and mouthwatering grilled or cool sandwiches, to savory soups, wraps and breakfast sandwiches.

White is a seasoned business leader and entrepreneur with more than a decade of extensive franchise experience. Prior to Growler USA, White launched several successful startup companies, including Rapid Refill Ink, which sold 100 franchises in its first 10 months.

The Smiling Moose corporate team has relocated to the Growler USA national headquarters in Centennial, CO. Sue Daggett, former President of Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli, will serve as an Executive Vice President.

“This was a strategic acquisition, as I think Smiling Moose Deli has a similar flair to Growler USA – it is a hometown, neighborhood place that has fantastic energy surrounding it,” White added. “The Growler USA development team is second to none, and I am confident they will provide the restaurant and franchise industry resources needed to grow Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli more aggressively and provide greater opportunities for new and existing franchisees.”

About Growler USA

Growler USA® – America’s Microbrew Pub, launched in 2014, is a neighborhood gathering place dedicated to offering only American-made craft beverages and a menu designed to celebrate the unique flavors of each drink. With up to 100 taps of craft beer, hard cider, draught wine, root beer, cold-pressed coffee and kombucha tea, Growler USA invites guests to enjoy craft beverages suiting their unique palate. Each Growler USA captures the personality of the community it serves through its decor elements, localized menu offerings, and unique draught options. For more information, visit growlerusa.com. To learn more about franchising opportunities, visit growlerusa.com/franchise.

About Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli 

Smiling Moose Rocky Mountain Deli serves up the fresh quality and flavor of a deli with a wry smile. Serious about offering innovative hand-crafted sandwiches, wraps, salads, homemade soups, fresh-baked cookies and more, Smiling Moose isn’t a secret, but for everyone who finds us it’s a welcome discovery. Enjoy our delicious, Rocky Mountain deli-style food… served fresh with a side of fun! For more information, visit SmilingMooseDeli.com.