Operations
Dutch Bros to acquire Clutch Coffee Bar
January 13, 2026
Dutch Bros Coffee has reached an agreement to acquire Clutch Coffee Bar, according to an open letter from Darren Spicer, the founder and CEO of Clutch Coffee Bar.
Clutch Coffee Bar, founded in 2018, will officially cease operations under its current branding this Friday, Jan. 16, at 4 p.m.
"Nearly eight years ago, we opened our very first drive-thru with a simple but clear mission: serve incredible drinks with positive energy," Spicer said in the letter. "This was not a decision made lightly — rather, it comes from a place of deep pride in what we've built together."
Spicer said the acquisition would provide Clutch team members with growth opportunities within the Dutch Bros system. The transition is expected to maintain the "quality, speed and service" that defined the Clutch brand since its 2018 debut in Mooresville.
A Dutch Bros spokesperson told FastCasual that following a short closure and renovation period, the company will reopen 20 Clutch stores as Dutch Bros shops.
Clutch Coffee Bar, known for its high-energy drive-thru service and diverse beverage menu, grew to several locations across North Carolina and South Carolina. The brand frequently emphasized its "community-first" culture, a trait Spicer believes aligns with Dutch Bros' corporate values.
"As a fellow brand built on human connection, we deeply respect what the Clutch Coffee Bar leadership team has built and look forward to building on that strong foundation in the Carolinas," the Dutch Bros spokesperson said. "We're excited to continue expanding across the country as we work toward our long-term goal of 2,029 shops in 2029."
Dutch Bros, which has over 1,000 locations, is encouraging Clutch customers to transition to its platform by offering a free medium drink to new users who download the Dutch Bros mobile app.
Specific financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
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