A major UK beer and bar chain giant could be rescued by one of it’s co-founders as they look to put millions in a bid to save the craft brewery brand.
According to Sky News, co-founder and former boss of BrewDog James Watt is believed to be ready to put in £10m of his own money in an attempt to rescue the business. This comes after a second round of offers are likely to be made for the craft brewer, following initial bids earlier this week.
It is understood Watt is looking to assemble further financial backing from external investors to take control of the brand just over two years after he stepped down as chief executive in 2024.
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The Scotland-based brewer appointed consultants AlixPartners to oversee a sale process after it announced the closure of its distilling brand made from its operations at Ellon, Aberdeenshire.
The company, which was founded in 2007, said it made the decision to focus on its beer products. BrewDog currently operates 72 bars around the world as well as four breweries.
It currently employs roughly 1,400 people and still has several of the most popular beers, including Punk IPA, Elvis Juice and Hazy Jane.
(Image: Jeff J Mitchell/Getty)
In comment to Sky News, BrewDog said: “As with many businesses operating in a challenging economic climate and facing sustained macro headwinds, we regularly review our options with a focus on the long-term strength and sustainability of the company.
“Following a year of decisive action in 2025, which saw a focus on costs and operating efficiencies, we have appointed AlixPartners to support a structured and competitive process to evaluate the next phase of investment for the business.
“This is a deliberate and disciplined step with a focus on strengthening the long-term future of the BrewDog brand and its operations.”
(Image: Getty Images)
BrewDog added to Sky that it “remains a global pioneer in craft beer: a world-class consumer brand, the No.1 independent brewer in the UK and with a highly engaged global community”.
“We believe that this combination will attract substantial interest, though no final decisions have been made.” Our breweries, bars, and venues continue to operate as normal.
“We will not comment on any further speculation.”
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