Society for Case Research Spring Conference MBAA

2
Experience level: 
Intermediate
Intended Audience: 
Faculty
Authors: 
Virginie Khare, Angel Brady

David Versus Goliath: Dutch Bros. Coffee Company Expanding Eastward

The case tells the story of Dutch Bros, a successful coffee chain out of Oregon. Once a family-owned-and-run business growing slowly via franchising, this company is now partially owned by a private equity firm, and planning to expand domestically and internationally without the use of franchise. As the company grows, it must decide how to compete against giant Starbucks while maintaining its unique brand image and competitive advantage.