Home / Business and Economy / BrewDog Founder's £10M Rescue Bid for Troubled Brewery
BrewDog Founder's £10M Rescue Bid for Troubled Brewery
21 Feb
Summary
- Founder James Watt proposes a £10 million personal investment.
- The company is for sale due to years of significant losses.
- Watt's bid could preserve stakes for 'Equity for Punks' investors.
BrewDog co-founder James Watt is reportedly planning to invest £10 million of his personal wealth in a bid to buy back the struggling craft beer company. The brewery has been put up for sale following several years of substantial financial losses. Watt, who stepped down as CEO in May 2024 amid allegations about the company's work culture, is seeking external financial backing for his acquisition plan.
This potential buyout offers a lifeline to over 200,000 'Equity for Punks' investors who collectively contributed approximately £75 million between 2009 and 2021. Insiders suggest Watt's proposal could preserve the stakes held by these everyday investors. BrewDog, founded in 2007, has faced increasing financial difficulties, including a loss of £37 million on a turnover of £357 million last year, leading to bar closures and staff reductions.
The company, which operates 72 bars globally and employs around 1,400 people, has seen its valuation drop significantly from a previous high of $1 billion. The sale process is being managed by AlixPartners. Concerns have been raised about the company's culture and Watt's past behaviour, which led to his departure as CEO. Despite these challenges, BrewDog remains a prominent player in the craft beer market, producing five of the top eight UK craft beer brands.
