Blackstone announced that Blackstone Growth and affiliated funds have made a growth equity investment in 7 Brew Coffee, the next-generation drive-thru beverage business. And Blackstone’s investment seeks to help enable 7 Brew to accelerate its already-rapid expansion across the U.S., in collaboration with its premier franchise partners.
Since 7 Brew started operating its first coffee “stand” in Rogers, Arkansas in 2017, the company has been committed to serving custom drinks (over 20,000 different combinations) while cultivating kindness and joy with every drink. And now 7 Brew is a leading franchisor recognized as QSR Magazine’s “Breakout Brand of 2023.”
The terms of the transaction were not disclosed. And Friday, Eldredge & Clark, LLP served as legal counsel to 7 Brew. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP served as legal counsel to Blackstone.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are on a strong growth trajectory thanks to our outstanding team, the Brew Crew, and are so excited to have found in Blackstone a true partner who understands our culture and whose global reach and incredible resources will enable us to reach this next stage of growth. Blackstone brings everything we are looking for to help serve our customers and support our franchisees – industry and market knowledge, franchisee relationships, data science, operations and real estate expertise.”
- John Davidson, CEO of 7 Brew
“7 Brew’s impressive growth to date is a testament to its strong team and franchisee partnerships. We are excited to partner with this business that is redefining the out-of-home coffee experience, by marrying a personal, human-centric customer service experience with premium products and exceptional efficiency.”
- Todd Hirsch and Katie Storer of Blackstone
“This investment illustrates Blackstone’s thematic focus on investing in strong franchise businesses alongside highly skilled operators. We are proud to bring Blackstone’s experience and global resources to fuel 7 Brew’s next stage of growth.”
- Brian Cornyn of Blackstone
“I am truly honored to have had my mentor, the legendary Jamie Coulter, ask me to help launch franchising for this exceptional brand. I am confident that the Brew Crew, management and Blackstone will continue to drive exponential growth.”
- Jimmy John Liautaud, Founder of Jimmy John’s Sandwiches, a selling shareholder in this transaction
