Dutch Bros Acquires 20-Unit Clutch Coffee Chain in Carolina Expansion
Dutch Bros is making a strategic move in the Carolinas by acquiring Clutch Coffee Bar, a 20-unit regional chain based in North Carolina, for an undisclosed price.
Clutch Coffee locations closed on January 16th. After renovations, the shops will reopen as Dutch Bros locations, giving the Arizona-based chain a much larger footprint in a region where it currently operates just two stores.
For Dutch Bros, the acquisition helps speed up its growth plans. The chain originally expected to open 175 new units in 2026, but Clutch's 20 locations could push that number closer to 200. Dutch Bros is working toward a goal of operating 2,029 shops by 2029.
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Clutch founder and CEO Darren Spicer announced the deal on the company's website and social media, emphasizing that the decision came from a place of pride rather than necessity.
"This was not a decision made lightly—rather it comes from a place of deep pride in what we've built together, and a belief that this next step will allow the culture, energy and community-first spirit you helped create continue to grow on an even bigger stage," Spicer wrote.
The two brands share a similar DNA. Both are drive-thru concepts that emphasize human connection and high-energy customer experiences. Clutch's model included playing upbeat music through outdoor speakers while baristas took orders carside and collected payments—an approach that mirrors Dutch Bros' people-first philosophy.
"Dutch Bros' people-first approach, operational expertise, and long-term vision create an opportunity for team members and customers to thrive, while preserving the culture and community focus that fueled our success from the start," Clutch said in a statement.
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Dutch Bros CEO and President Christine Barone has described how the company's staff "create a high-energy welcoming environment that turns a stop at the drive-thru into a memorable moment."
The timing works well for Dutch Bros, which has been seeing strong performance across the Midwest and Southeast. The chain reported same-store sales up 5.7% last year, with transactions up 4.7% - some of the strongest numbers in the restaurant industry. Average unit volumes across its system have also grown past $2 million.
"We deeply respect what the Clutch Coffee Bar leadership team has created and look forward to building on that strong foundation in the Carolinas," Dutch Bros said.
