Shop Around: New craft beer franchise coming to Columbia

Owners of Knoxville, Tenn.-based The Casual Pint craft beer market franchise have announced plans to open three stores in Columbia starting in spring 2016.

"The six breweries and the overall craft beer enthusiasm in Columbia make moving to the area a no-brainer," said Nathan Robinette, president and CEO of The Casual Pint.

Owner, operator and local entrepreneur Doug Harmon began the process of opening the newest Casual Pint franchise in Columbia in late September. Harmon is quick to point out that The Casual Pint is not a bar but "a beer cafe."

"Craft beer isn’t a passing fad. This college town has a thriving craft beer scene that is eager for a community-driven business like The Casual Pint," said Harmon. "With college graduates and young professionals opting to stay in Columbia, our city deserves a place where everyone can enjoy artisan brews without worrying about the usual bar environment."

The Columbia location will be the franchise's 13th store, joining Greenville as the second location in South Carolina. The Casual Pint features features hundreds of bottled local, domestic and international brews as well as a rotating tap wall for take-home growlers and on-site tastings in a dedicated bar area.

Owners have not released the locations of the new stores yet.

This story was originally published December 16, 2015 at 12:56 PM with the headline "Shop Around: New craft beer franchise coming to Columbia."