Chicago-based private equity firm Uncommon Equity LLC has acquired HopCat, the craft beer bar chain founded in Grand Rapids, Michigan, marking a significant deal for the company. The acquisition includes all of Project BarFly LLC's assets, including 12 locations across Michigan and one in Nebraska, as well as Stella's Lounge in Grand Rapids.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Uncommon Equity expressed its excitement to partner with HopCat's leadership team, led by Chairman Ned Lidvall, CEO Craig Stage, CFO Andrew Woodruff, and their leadership. Dan Kipp, co-founder and CEO of Uncommon Equity, stated that they aim to grow the HopCat brand while maintaining its focus on great food served in a friendly atmosphere.
HopCat has been a staple in Michigan's craft beer scene since its founding in 2008, known for its diverse selection of rotating craft beers on tap and its menu featuring burgers and signature Cosmik Fries. CEO Craig Stage acknowledged the acquisition as a continuation of HopCat's mission to bring people together, emphasizing that they are committed to preserving the local and Midwest hospitality that defines the brand.
Under Uncommon Equity's ownership, HopCat is poised for expansion and innovation while maintaining its core values. As part of this partnership, Kipp will join HopCat's board of directors to oversee the company's growth strategy. The acquisition marks an exciting new chapter in HopCat's history, as it looks to grow its presence and further solidify its reputation as a premier craft beer destination.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Uncommon Equity expressed its excitement to partner with HopCat's leadership team, led by Chairman Ned Lidvall, CEO Craig Stage, CFO Andrew Woodruff, and their leadership. Dan Kipp, co-founder and CEO of Uncommon Equity, stated that they aim to grow the HopCat brand while maintaining its focus on great food served in a friendly atmosphere.
HopCat has been a staple in Michigan's craft beer scene since its founding in 2008, known for its diverse selection of rotating craft beers on tap and its menu featuring burgers and signature Cosmik Fries. CEO Craig Stage acknowledged the acquisition as a continuation of HopCat's mission to bring people together, emphasizing that they are committed to preserving the local and Midwest hospitality that defines the brand.
Under Uncommon Equity's ownership, HopCat is poised for expansion and innovation while maintaining its core values. As part of this partnership, Kipp will join HopCat's board of directors to oversee the company's growth strategy. The acquisition marks an exciting new chapter in HopCat's history, as it looks to grow its presence and further solidify its reputation as a premier craft beer destination.
I mean, who wouldn't want to acquire a craft beer bar chain? It's like buying a really expensive fridge full of cold beverages 
. But seriously, it's cool that Uncommon Equity is all about growing the brand while keeping things friendly and foodie-focused. HopCat's got a great reputation, and I'm sure they'll keep serving up those famous Cosmik Fries 
. It's like they're saying, "Hey, we've got a new partner, but our beer will still be hop-py 
". Anyway, I hope the expansion doesn't turn HopCat into one of those fancy-schmancy bars... I mean, who needs that? Just give me a cold beer and some decent grub 
.
! They're not just buying the business, they're actually on board with the team's vision & values 
. It's great to see a new chapter unfolding for HopCat, especially with Craig and his crew at the helm 
. I'm super excited to try out these new beers and menus... gotta get my Cosmik Fries fix ASAP 
!
it's gonna be interesting to see what they come up with under uncommon equity's ownership. dan kipp seems like a cool dude too, and that he'll be joining the board of directors is super exciting for me as a hopcat fan 
i just hope they keep the same vibe and hospitality that makes hopcat so lovable. fingers crossed! 
The acquisition by Uncommon Equity LLC will undoubtedly bring new opportunities for growth and innovation to HopCat, but it's also interesting to see how this partnership will play out. Will they be able to preserve the local charm that makes HopCat so special? Only time will tell. 
. I wonder if we'll see more locations popping up outside of Michigan too 
? The fact that Dan Kipp is joining the board as well suggests he's committed to helping HopCat grow in all the right ways 
it's time for them to upgrade and take their business to the next level 
It's like HopCat is finally going to reach its full potential and become the ultimate craft beer mecca! I'm beyond stoked for this partnership and all the possibilities it brings. Bring on that growth and expansion! 
they'll change everything to fit their own business model 
but on the other hand, I don't want HopCat to disappear or lose its vibe 
- I mean, who wouldn't want to grab a cold pint and some crazy-good Cosmik Fries at one of their locations? It's like they're living in the world of "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia" where you can party all night and drink all day. On a serious note though, it'll be cool to see them expand and bring that Midwest hospitality vibe to more places. Uncommon Equity seems like they understand what makes HopCat special so far 
What's up with all these chain acquisitions? I'm not sure if it's bad or good for the industry, but it'll be interesting to see how HopCat adapts under new ownership 