Crave Cookies acquired in above-ask cash deal

Crave Cookies, the Renton, Washington gourmet cookie franchise known for its rotating “Drop” menu, has been acquired by Earl Greene in an all-cash transaction brokered by Website Closers. The sale closed at almost 33% above asking price and marks the brand’s first franchise resale.

Why it matters: - The deal shows buyer demand for fast-growing consumer brands with repeat-purchase models. - Crave Cookies enters a new growth phase under ownership focused on expansion. - The sale price, nearly 33% above asking, signals strong confidence in the brand’s momentum.

What happened: - Crave Cookies of Renton, Washington was acquired by Earl Greene in a strategic cash transaction. - Zach McGillis of Website Closers brokered the deal. - The transaction closed on Sept. 16, 2026. - The business sold for almost 33% above the asking price. - The sale is the first franchise resale completed by the franchisor.

The details: - Crave Cookies was opened at the end of 2023 by two brothers and one brother’s wife. - The brand is known as the “Home of the Deep Dish Cookie.” - The franchise uses a direct-to-consumer bakery model built around oversized, thick, warm gourmet cookies. - The signature “Drop” concept rotates six limited-time flavors on a recurring schedule. - The menu also includes an always-available chocolate chip cookie, seasonal creations, chilled varieties, cereal-topped specialty cookies, éclair-inspired desserts, and novelty sweet treats. - Website Closers described the business as a strong fit for buyers seeking brand identity, repeat customers and a proven demand-generation model. - Greene said he plans to expand delivery, franchise opportunities and new product concepts. - The Hawkins family, identified as Joseph Hawkins, Michael Hawkins and Mary Hawkins, sold the business. - The sellers said Website Closers and Zach McGillis helped them secure a cash offer that exceeded expectations.

Between the lines: - The premium price suggests the market valued Crave Cookies more for its brand and operating model than for its short track record. - The recurring product-launch strategy creates urgency and repeat visits, which can be attractive in food and franchise businesses. - A first franchise resale can be an early signal that the concept is maturing beyond startup status.

What's next: - Greene plans to scale the brand in the gourmet dessert market. - Crave Cookies is expected to lean further into delivery, franchising and new products. - The sale gives the brand a fresh ownership structure as it tries to turn early momentum into broader growth.

The bottom line: - Crave Cookies changed hands at a premium because buyers saw a scalable brand with a loyal customer base and a built-in repeat-sales engine.