Brewdog co-founder James Watt launches bid to buy back beer firm

Watt recently apologised to staff and investors for the “many mistakes” made in the management of the company, admitting that it tried to diversify too quickly.

Brewdog’s brash marketing style had regularly sparked controversy, but the firm also faced criticism for its treatment of investors and staff.

A 2022 a BBC Disclosure investigation uncovered claims of inappropriate behaviour by Watt towards female staff, and revealed that Brewdog violated import laws and fabricated many of its marketing stories.

In 2024, the firm faced a backlash after revealing it would no longer hire new staff on the real living wage, instead paying the lower legal minimum wage.

Watt denied any wrongdoing alleged in the film and threatened to sue the BBC. He later said he sometimes missed social cues because he has autism.

A complaint to broadcasting regulator Ofcom was rejected.

Brewdog said it was putting in a range of measures to improve workplace culture following the release of the programme.

Tilray and Second Best have been asked to comment on Watt’s letter.