[ad_1]
A Carolina-born coffee chain is shutting down after nearly eight years.
Clutch Coffee Bar, a drive-thru chain headquartered in Mooresville, is officially closing ahead of Dutch Bros Coffee’s plans to acquire its 20 locations across the Carolinas, according to a message posted to the business’s website. Its last day is Friday, Jan. 16.
Launched in 2018, Clutch Coffee has over a dozen drive-thrus, including Charlotte-area spots in Indian Trail, Monroe and Rock Hill.
All locations will undergo renovations and reopen as Dutch Bros shops, though the timeline is unclear.
“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,” Clutch co-founder Darren Spicer wrote.
Dutch Bros confirmed the acquisition and said it will build on Clutch’s “strong foundation in the Carolinas.”
The Arizona-based coffee chain operates more than 1,000 locations nationwide and submitted a redevelopment plan for 5637 Albemarle Road in December.
“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 told CharlotteFive in a statement.
Spicer pointed to a “strong alignment in values” with Dutch Bros, saying the acquisition will benefit Clutch’s customers and employees.
“Dutch Bros’ track record of incredible quality, speed, service, and local impact allow this transition to be rooted in shared purpose, not just growth,” he said.
Local love for Clutch Coffee Bar
In a farewell message, Spicer thanked the community for its support over the last several years.
“Thank you for choosing us on your busiest mornings, for letting us be part of your routines, and for supporting a dream that started with a small team and a lot of heart and belief in Mooresville, NC,” he said.
Clutch Coffee fans mourned news of the closure on social media:
- “Me and my husband went to Clutch every single time he had chemo. All the employees in Mooresville were so terrific to both of us every time!! I will miss y’all so much! Clutch is the best,” Julie Beebe wrote on Facebook.
- “Clutch employees were always so professional, loving, respectful & willingness to always make sure service was top tier. Business wise, congratulations – but we will be the OG CLUTCH! Here’s to new beginnings,” Nicholas Liddle commented.
- “This makes me so sad but also love that Dutch is coming to the East coast. We’ll miss you guys,” Taylor Purser wrote.*
This is a developing story and will be updated.
*Comments have been edited for capitalization.
Clutch Coffee Bar
Location: Multiple
Cuisine: Coffee, smoothies + more
Instagram: @clutchcoffeebar
This story was originally published January 14, 2026 at 11:24 AM.
[ad_2]
Tanasia Kenney
Source link
