BIP Invests in Tin Drum Asiacafe

Atlanta-based BIP Opportunities Fund LP is taking a minority interest in the Pan Asian fast casual chain Tin Drum Asiacafe. The investment in Tin Drum, also based in Atlanta, will provide capital to fuel the brand’s expansion strategy announced in early 2012.

PRESS RELEASE

Atlanta-based BIP Opportunities Fund LP (BIP) announced today that it is taking a minority interest in the rapidly growing Pan Asian fast casual chain Tin Drum Asiacafe (Tin Drum). The investment in Tin Drum, also based in Atlanta, will provide the necessary capital to fuel the emerging brand’s expansion strategy announced in early 2012.

Founder and CEO Steven Chan began franchising Tin Drum, his popular Asian-street food concept, in 2011 and expects to double the company’s corporate and franchise unit base by the end of 2012. Tin Drum is actively pursuing franchisees in the southern states of Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Florida and the Carolinas.
“Consumers want the fresh, made-to-order menu options that Tin Drum provides,” said Scott Pressly, BIP partner. “We feel the company has broad appeal and is well positioned for significant growth in the fast-casual Asian segment.”

Tin Drum features more than 35 menu items made with Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Indian influences and 15 authentic sauces. The chain also offers a wide variety of options to help manage special diets, including a gluten-free menu, Tin Drum is certified by Healthy Dining Finder and offers guests SmartMenu kiosks by UsableHealth, the only self-ordering system to customize meals based on dietary needs and taste preferences.

“Healthy, authentic Asian cuisine served up quickly is what we strive for,” said Chan. “The BIP investment will help us meet this demand at a faster rate, by attracting new franchisees, developing company stores and investing in our infrastructure.”

About BIP Opportunities Fund:
BIP Opportunities Fund is an Atlanta-based investment firm focused on providing capital and operational support to emerging, high-growth companies. The firm seeks to invest between $2 million to $5 million in companies with revenues up to $15 million. Industry sectors covered include technology, healthcare, business services, franchising, and specialty finance. For additional information on BIP Opportunities Fund, please visit www.bipfund.com.

About Tin Drum Asiacafe:
Atlanta-based Tin Drum Asiacafé features Asian street food at its 10 southeastern locations, made fresh to order and at a great value. Recently named “One to Watch” by QSR magazine, Tin Drum’s Pan Asian menu features more than 35 items made with Thai, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Indian influences and 15 proprietary sauces. Certified by HealthyDiningFinder, the chain features kiosks equipped with health-based software that allow patrons to order based on individual dietary goals, along with a diverse gluten-free menu and vegetarian options. The fast-growing chain offers franchising opportunities throughout the Southeast. Visit: http://www.tindrumcafe.com/ or join Tin Drum on Facebook.
Media contact: Ellen Hartman (678) 399-3335/ellen@hartmanpr.com