Chicago-based private equity firm Uncommon Equity LLC has acquired HopCat, the popular craft beer bar chain founded in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The deal includes 12 locations across the state and one in Nebraska, as well as a separate restaurant called Stella's Lounge.
According to Dan Kipp, co-founder and CEO of Uncommon Equity, the company is excited about acquiring HopCat at this pivotal point in time. Kipp will join HopCat's board of directors and is looking forward to partnering with Chairman Ned Lidvall, CEO Craig Stage, CFO Andrew Woodruff, and their leadership team to grow the brand.
For Stage, who currently serves as CEO of Project BarFly LLC, the acquisition represents a continuation of what HopCat does best – bringing people together. He expressed his enthusiasm about partnering with Uncommon Equity to invest in new locations, innovation, and the local hospitality that defines the brand.
The terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but fans of HopCat are likely relieved to know that the company will continue to serve its signature craft beers and delicious menu items, including Cosmik Fries. Founded in 2008, HopCat has established itself as a beloved destination for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.
With Uncommon Equity at the helm, it remains to be seen how the brand will evolve in the coming years. One thing is certain, however: HopCat's loyal following can look forward to continuing their favorite craft beer bar experience with the same commitment to quality and community that has made the chain so successful.
According to Dan Kipp, co-founder and CEO of Uncommon Equity, the company is excited about acquiring HopCat at this pivotal point in time. Kipp will join HopCat's board of directors and is looking forward to partnering with Chairman Ned Lidvall, CEO Craig Stage, CFO Andrew Woodruff, and their leadership team to grow the brand.
For Stage, who currently serves as CEO of Project BarFly LLC, the acquisition represents a continuation of what HopCat does best – bringing people together. He expressed his enthusiasm about partnering with Uncommon Equity to invest in new locations, innovation, and the local hospitality that defines the brand.
The terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but fans of HopCat are likely relieved to know that the company will continue to serve its signature craft beers and delicious menu items, including Cosmik Fries. Founded in 2008, HopCat has established itself as a beloved destination for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.
With Uncommon Equity at the helm, it remains to be seen how the brand will evolve in the coming years. One thing is certain, however: HopCat's loyal following can look forward to continuing their favorite craft beer bar experience with the same commitment to quality and community that has made the chain so successful.
. I mean, I'm all for growth and innovation, but do we really need Uncommon Equity's hands on our craft beer bars? They'll just turn HopCat into some soulless chain with the same old corporate vibes 
. What about preserving that community feel they've worked so hard to build? I guess only time will tell if Kipp's enthusiasm is genuine or just a marketing ploy 
. One thing's for sure, I'm gonna miss seeing those Cosmik Fries on the menu at the original HopCat location...
! been a big fan of their craft beers and food, especially those Cosmik Fries lol, can't wait to see what new locations they'll open up in Michigan and Nebraska. hope they keep serving up that awesome beer and vibes 
seems like they're in good hands now with uncommon equity tho 
gotta try those cosmik fries again 
! i mean, they're not just gonna shut down or sell out to some soulless corp, they actually found a partner who's all about growing the brand but still keeping it real 
. dan kipp and craig stage are like, totally on the same page when it comes to that community vibe and quality food/drink... let's give them props for making this deal happen 
. i know some ppl might be worried 'bout the future of hopcat, but honestly, this feels like a win-win 
according to Glassdoor, average employee satisfaction at HopCat is around 4.5/5 which is insane for the industry 
also, they have a loyal following with over 2k reviews on Yelp averaging 4.5/5 as well... that's some serious customer loyalty 
And did you know, HopCat has been in business for 15 years now? They've got a rep for being one of the best craft beer bars in the country 
!