The Sports Bra, the pioneering sports bar in the United States dedicated exclusively to women’s sports, is charting an exciting course for expansion. Founded in April 2022 by entrepreneur Jenny Nguyen in Portland, Oregon, The Sports Bra has carved out a unique niche where women and girls in sports are celebrated and championed. This innovative bar is now set to open in four new cities: Boston, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, and St. Louis, marking a significant moment in the evolution of spaces that honor women’s athletic achievements.
The original Sports Bra has been a beacon for sports enthusiasts looking for a place that eschews the traditional male-dominated sports bar concept. Nguyen’s mission was clear: to create an inclusive venue where women can not only enjoy sports but also feel a strong sense of community. As the bar gains traction, it reflects a broader trend across the United States, with other female-centered sports bars emerging, such as The 99ers Sports Bar in Denver and Rough & Tumble in Seattle.
Nguyen enthusiastically refers to the new locations as the “Starting Five.” “Together, we’re serving fans nationwide who are hungry for spaces that not only champion women’s sports but create a community where everyone feels like they belong,” she said. Opening these locations comes at a pivotal time, as more people recognize the importance of equitable representation in sports media and cultural narratives.
One of the most exciting aspects of this expansion is the partnership with Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian, whose 776 Foundation has invested in The Sports Bra and seeks to franchise its mission. Potential investors were invited to apply back in October, illustrating the growing interest in creating spaces that uplift women’s visibility in sports. This franchise model ensures that each new location will remain locally owned and operated, providing a platform for highlighting regional, women-owned food and beverage products.
As we look at the menu, The Sports Bra serves up a creative fusion of sports culture and culinary delights. Options like the $17 “Bra-L-T” sandwich and a refreshing $14 green goddess salad hint at a commitment to quality and variety. The bar also features signature cocktails, such as Title IX, Cherry Picker, and Pickle Ball, all inventive choices that enhance the bar’s unique atmosphere.
However, the pathway to opening a franchise is not without its financial considerations. According to reports, franchisees face a startup cost ranging from $55,000 to $834,000, which encompasses training, leases, and insurance requirements. In addition, after launching, franchises are expected to contribute 8% of their gross revenue annually. Despite these costs, the original Portland location has proven financially viable, with an impressive average revenue of $1.086 million over the past two years.
An intriguing element is how the revenue is generated; around 80% comes from food and alcohol sales, while events, merchandise, and non-alcoholic drink sales account for the remainder. This diverse revenue stream showcases the potential for success and sustainability, making a compelling case for prospective franchise owners.
As The Sports Bra prepares to make a splash in Boston, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, and St. Louis, it mirrors a growing movement toward recognizing and celebrating women’s sports. The establishment of venues like The Sports Bra not only creates a space for discussion and celebration but also fosters a community that encourages participation and recognition of female athletes at all levels.
As more sports media and cultural spaces embrace such innovations, it is clear that gender equity in sports is slowly but surely gaining momentum. The mission is undeniably compelling: to create spaces where everyone can gather, cheer, and discuss the incredible achievements of women in sports. This venture seeks to shift the sports narrative, emphasizing that women’s sports deserve the same attention and respect as their male counterparts.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan, someone looking to explore the world of women’s sports, or even an entrepreneur inspired to engage in similar ventures, The Sports Bra offers a sense of belonging in a world where women’s achievements are finally getting the spotlight they deserve. The expansion of The Sports Bra is not just about opening new bars; it’s about creating an inclusive movement that challenges long-standing norms in sports culture.
In terms of societal impact, The Sports Bra represents a testament to what can be achieved when the focus shifts toward inclusivity and equality. It’s a movement that goes beyond athleisure and game-watching; it’s about building a supportive infrastructure for women in sports and creating a cultural shift that pays homage to female athletes throughout history. The ripple effects of this endeavor could pave the way for other entrepreneurs to invest in similar concepts while inspiring future generations to engage with sports in a more meaningful way.
The journey of The Sports Bra is still in its early stages, but the excitement surrounding its growth suggests that this may just be the starting line. With plans for more franchises and a dedication to fostering community, The Sports Bra exemplifies how passion for sports can translate into powerful social change. For those seeking to be part of this journey, it’s an inspirational time to follow the expansion of The Sports Bra and support women’s sports in any way possible.
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