Brewdog Staff ‘Upset and Concerned’ by Potential Sale Plans
Recent news of Brewdog’s potential sale has left employees feeling upset and concerned about their futures, according to the Unite union. The craft beer giant has engaged financial experts, AlixPartners, to assist in attracting new investors, raising fears that the Aberdeenshire-based company could be broken up.
Concerns Among Brewdog Employees
– Employees reported feeling anxious about their job security, claiming they received minimal communication from senior management. Many only learned about the potential sale through media reports.
– Brewdog confirmed in a separate email to staff, shared with BBC Scotland News, that the decision to seek investors was a normal and prudent step and stated that it would not alter day-to-day operations, roles, or immediate plans.
Reasons Behind the Decision
– The firm explained that bringing in AlixPartners was a response to operating in a challenging economic climate, emphasizing a focus on long-term strength and sustainability.
Impact on Staff
– Bryan Simpson, hospitality lead for Unite, mentioned that the union has been deluged with messages from staff worried about their livelihoods since the announcement. He noted that some employees have already seen their hours reduced from 32 to 24 per week, affecting their financial stability by approximately £400.
– Brewdog employs around 1,400 people and has brewing facilities not only in Ellon but also in the US, Australia, and Germany. Many inquiries to the union have come from employees at the Ellon site.
– Simpson stressed, This isn’t just about a brand on the brink—it’s about people’s jobs and their ability to pay rent and childcare. Learning about a potential sale through the press is morally unacceptable.
Demand for Clarity
– The union is calling for transparency regarding job security. If redundancies are necessary, staff deserve to be informed promptly and provided with proper consultation to ensure they receive what they’re owed.
Brewdog’s Recent History
– Last year, Brewdog announced the closure of ten bars across the UK. Founded in 2007 by friends James Watt and Martin Dickie, the company now has around 60 bars in the UK and numerous international locations.
– In 2017, Brewdog sold a 22.3% stake to private equity firm TSG Consumer Partners. Watt stepped down as CEO in 2024, transitioning to a role as co-founder and captain, while Dickie left the company last year for personal reasons.
– Earlier this year, Brewdog announced that it would stop producing its Lonewolf Gin and Abstrakt Vodka brands at its Ellon distillery, following prior job cuts after a reported £37 million loss.
In the wake of these unsettling developments, Brewdog has garnered attention not only for its marketing strategies but also for its workplace culture. The company’s recent decisions, including the cessation of hiring at the real living wage, have sparked controversy, heightening employee concerns during this precarious time for Brewdog and its workforce.