Chicago-based Private Equity Firm Acquires Craft Beer Bar Chain HopCat, Keeping Grand Rapids' Spirit Alive
A deal has been struck in the world of craft beer enthusiasts, with Uncommon Equity LLC acquiring Project BarFly LLC, the parent company behind popular Michigan-based chain HopCat. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for the beloved bar chain, which boasts 12 locations across Michigan and one in Nebraska, as well as a separate Grand Rapids eatery called Stella's Lounge.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the acquisition is seen as an opportunity to further grow the HopCat brand while maintaining its commitment to serving great food at affordable prices in a friendly atmosphere. Dan Kipp, co-founder and CEO of Uncommon Equity, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are excited to be acquiring HopCat at this pivotal point in time and to partner with Chairman Ned Lidvall, CEO Craig Stage, CFO Andrew Woodruff, and their leadership team to carefully grow the HopCat brand."
Craig Stage, CEO of Project BarFly, shared a similar sentiment, saying, "We see this transition not as a change of direction, but as a continuation of what HopCat does best – bringing people together." The acquisition is expected to involve investment in new locations and innovation, with the goal of preserving the unique Midwest hospitality that defines the brand.
HopCat was founded back in 2008 and has since become a staple on Michigan's craft beer scene. Its bars are renowned for their diverse selection of rotating craft beers on tap and its menu featuring burgers and signature Cosmik Fries. With this new partnership, HopCat is poised to continue thriving as a beloved gathering place for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.
A deal has been struck in the world of craft beer enthusiasts, with Uncommon Equity LLC acquiring Project BarFly LLC, the parent company behind popular Michigan-based chain HopCat. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment for the beloved bar chain, which boasts 12 locations across Michigan and one in Nebraska, as well as a separate Grand Rapids eatery called Stella's Lounge.
The terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the acquisition is seen as an opportunity to further grow the HopCat brand while maintaining its commitment to serving great food at affordable prices in a friendly atmosphere. Dan Kipp, co-founder and CEO of Uncommon Equity, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are excited to be acquiring HopCat at this pivotal point in time and to partner with Chairman Ned Lidvall, CEO Craig Stage, CFO Andrew Woodruff, and their leadership team to carefully grow the HopCat brand."
Craig Stage, CEO of Project BarFly, shared a similar sentiment, saying, "We see this transition not as a change of direction, but as a continuation of what HopCat does best – bringing people together." The acquisition is expected to involve investment in new locations and innovation, with the goal of preserving the unique Midwest hospitality that defines the brand.
HopCat was founded back in 2008 and has since become a staple on Michigan's craft beer scene. Its bars are renowned for their diverse selection of rotating craft beers on tap and its menu featuring burgers and signature Cosmik Fries. With this new partnership, HopCat is poised to continue thriving as a beloved gathering place for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.
I'm kinda torn about this acquisition thingy... On one hand, it's great that Uncommon Equity LLC wants to keep the HopCat spirit alive, especially with their commitment to serving good grub at reasonable prices 
. It's awesome for craft beer enthusiasts like me! However, I worry that they might change too much of the original vibe 
. HopCat has a loyal following in Michigan and Grand Rapids, so I hope they don't lose sight of what makes it special 
.
. Maybe this acquisition will bring in some fresh ideas, but also some risk of losing that unique charm 
. Only time (and beers) will tell! 
it's gonna be awesome to see them expand and innovate while keeping that Midwest hospitality thing going strong. ned lidvall, craig stage, dan kipp - these leaders know what they're doing! 
let's raise a pint to HopCat and their new partners 
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. Can't wait to try out some new beers and eats at their bars, especially with all the investment going into new locations!
. I've been to some of their locations and they always have such a great vibe going on - comfy chairs, delicious food, and an amazing selection of craft beers 
. Can't wait to see what's in store for Stella's Lounge too 
. I mean, who doesn't love a good craft beer and some tasty food at a reasonable price 
? It's gonna be interesting to see what new locations and innovations they come up with 
, but as long as the spirit of HopCat remains intact, I'm all for it 
. I've been to one of their bars in Grand Rapids and it's literally the coziest place ever - great beer selection, tasty food, and that Cosmik Fries are TO DIE FOR 
. Let's keep the craft beer scene thriving! 
I've been meaning to try it out in grand Rapids but never got the chance 
. I remember when I first discovered them back in the day, they were already like this hidden gem bar that only us craft beer nerds knew about. And now, they're being acquired by Uncommon Equity LLC? It's like a whole new chapter for the brand 
.
i'm def here for that! 
Anyway, I'm glad they're gonna keep serving up those affordable prices and friendly vibes - because, let's be real, that's what makes HopCat so lovable. It's like the granddaddy of all Midwest gastropubs... with a side of beer-fueled nostalgia 
And speaking of crazy, have you ever tried making your own beer at home? My buddy's brother has this awesome setup in his garage and he makes these incredible brews 
. I'm seriously thinking of getting into it... or maybe just visiting HopCat again soon 