iPourIt x The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen
Case Study: ELEVATING THE TAPROOM EXPERIENCE
The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen is the largest self-pour taproom in the Midwest, located in downtown Eau Claire, Wisconsin. As the only establishment in the area located on the riverfront, it offers an impressive, diverse selection of 72 self-pour taps featuring beer, wine, cocktails, seltzers, THC-infused beverages, and kombucha. In addition to the tap wall, the establishment boasts a full bar with expert mixologists, offering one of the largest liquor selections in the region. The place includes a spacious event room, which can host up to 40 guests. Additionally, they will soon open a 4,000 sq ft patio by the river, featuring two long 8 foot fireplaces and an opportunity to play games, enhancing the overall guest experience. The venue comfortably accommodates 150 people and includes a full kitchen serving a variety of elevated tapas, including flatbreads, tater tots, and cheese curds.
Highlights
- Self-pour beverage system integrated into a community-focused venue, supporting The Phoenix’s mission-driven model.
- Pay-by-the-ounce self-pour experience gives guests autonomy while maintaining a smooth, controlled flow.
- Streamlined beverage operations, reducing traditional bar complexity and staffing needs.
- Technology supports accountability and tracking, aligning with the venue’s emphasis on responsibility and structure.
- Encourages social connection, allowing guests to focus on conversation and activities rather than waiting in line.
- Flexible system configuration, adaptable to events, group gatherings, and changing program needs.
- Self-pour technology enhances the overall experience without detracting from the venue’s core mission.
iPourIt Self-Pour Tap Wall Technology
A THIRST FOR SAMPLES
The owners, Brad and Bre Hansen, were inspired to create a self-pour taproom after experiencing the freedom and convenience of sampling various beverages during their travels. They disliked having to ask for samples and wanted to offer their customers the same hassle-free experience. The ability to try different drinks without the need for buying an 8 oz. glass was the main factor that pushed them towards adopting a self-pour system.
The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen chose iPourIt over other solutions due to several key factors:
- Capacity: The ability to accommodate a larger number of taps was crucial for offering a diverse selection of beverages.
- Individual Screens: The ability to offer 1.1 screen ratio for each tap, was important for a great guest experience and a simple pouring process.
- Software Suite: iPourIt’s robust software platform that is built in-house, including the custom integration with GoTab, would provide them with a comprehensive solution for managing operations and enhancing the guest experience a diverse selection of beverages.
- Exceptional Support: The iPourIt team’s responsiveness and dedication throughout the sales process and the implementation and support system iPourIt offered.
The installation process of the iPourIt self-pour tap wall was smooth, taking approximately three weeks from the start of installation to pouring the first beer. The taproom officially opened its doors on July 1, 2024.
“Implementing iPourIt at The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen has been a game-changer. The system is incredibly user-friendly, making it easy for both our staff and customers to navigate. The accuracy in tracking pours and managing inventory has been spot-on, giving us peace of mind and better control over our operations. On top of that, the support team has been outstanding—always responsive and ready to assist whenever we need them. iPourIt has truly elevated our taproom experience.”
Brad Hansen, Owner, The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen
CHEERS TO CHOICE: EMPOWERING GUESTS ONE POUR AT A TIME
Guests’ response to the self-pour tap wall has been overwhelmingly positive, with 95% expressing extreme satisfaction. The ability to pour small amounts, less than 8 ounces, is a favorite feature among patrons. The taproom also ensures a continuous introduction of new offerings of beer brands and flavors, which has helped them gain a loyal customer base. The Granola cleaning system has turned out to be a great investment to keep the lines clean and beer at its freshest.
The staff has embraced the iPourIt system, finding it user-friendly and straightforward. The management team benefits from the comprehensive insights provided by the system, which contributes to efficient operations and cost savings. The taproom has achieved an impressive 1% keg yield waste, highlighting the system’s efficiency.
Since its opening, The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen has served over 315,000 ounces of beverages, with an average of 4.7 ounces per customer. Cocktails have proven to be the most popular and profitable offering. The tap wall has exceeded initial projections, performing at double the expected rate. Additionally, the inclusion of a full kitchen has enhanced the guest experience and extended their stay. On a busy night, the taproom sees about 500 to 1,000 customers coming through, pouring approximately 10,000 ounces of beverages nightly, totaling 315,000 ounces since their opening.
CONCLUSION
The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen’s partnership with iPourIt has been a resounding success for the Hansen’s and their team. The self-pour tap wall has revolutionized their operations, driving sales, enhancing customer satisfaction, and optimizing efficiency. With plans for future expansion and continued utilization of the iPourIt system, The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen is poised for continued growth and success.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- iPourIt’s user-friendly system simplifies operations for both staff and customers
- Accurate pour tracking and inventory management provide valuable insights and control
- Exceptional support from the iPourIt team ensures a smooth implementation and ongoing assistance
- The Granola cleaning system is highly recommended for maintaining beverage freshness
- Seamless integration with GoTab streamlines operations and enhances the customer experience
- iPourIt’s superior software and integration capabilities set it apart from competitors in the market.
If you’re looking to elevate your taproom experience, iPourIt is the ideal solution. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your business goals.
Citations:
The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen. “The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen Wins Big in Volume One’s Best of the Chippewa Valley 2025.” The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen, 2025. https://www.thephoenixtaproom.com/news/volume-ones-best-of-the-chippewa-valley-2025
iPourIt, Inc. “The Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen Opens Midwest’s Largest Self-Pour Taproom with iPourIt Technology.” iPourIt, Inc., July 5, 2024. https://ipouritinc.com/the-phoenix-taproom-opens/
Yahoo Lifestyle. “Phoenix Taproom & Kitchen Opens Doors in Eau Claire.” Yahoo Lifestyle, March 2024. https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/phoenix-taproom-kitchen-opens-doors-035900979.html