Concerns are mounting among Brewdog employees following reports that the popular craft beer brand may be sold off, a move that has left staff feeling uneasy about their job security. The Aberdeenshire-based company has enlisted the financial consultancy AlixPartners to attract potential investors, which could lead to significant changes in its operations and structure.
Union Voices Employee Concerns
The Unite union, which represents Brewdog staff, has expressed deep concern over the situation, stating that employees have been left in the dark regarding their futures. Many workers were reportedly unaware of the impending sale until it was disclosed by media outlets, prompting feelings of distress among the workforce. Employees have received minimal communication from senior management, with only one email addressing the situation.
In a statement to staff, Brewdog described the engagement of AlixPartners as a “normal and prudent step” aimed at ensuring the company’s long-term viability. They maintain that the day-to-day operations of the business, including employee roles and immediate plans, remain unchanged. However, the uncertainty surrounding potential structural changes has left many feeling unsettled.
Financial Strain and Employee Impact
Bryan Simpson, the hospitality lead for Unite, highlighted that the union has been inundated with messages from worried staff about job security. Some employees have already experienced reductions in their working hours, dropping from 32 to 24 hours per week, resulting in a financial hit of approximately £400 monthly.
Simpson stressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “This isn’t just about the potential collapse of a brand; it’s about people’s livelihoods—how they pay their rent, their bills, and their childcare. To find out about their employer’s sale through the media is morally unacceptable.” He called for transparency regarding any forthcoming redundancies, insisting that employees deserve prompt notification and consultation.
Brewdog’s Recent History
Brewdog, founded by friends James Watt and Martin Dickie in 2007, has evolved into a global player in the craft beer market, operating bars and breweries in multiple countries, including around 60 in the UK. Last year, the company made headlines by closing ten bars across the UK, a move that raised eyebrows amid its previous rapid expansion.
In recent years, Brewdog has grappled with financial difficulties, reporting a staggering loss of £37 million. The company also faced backlash in 2024 for its decision to discontinue hiring new staff at the real living wage, opting instead for the legal minimum wage. The departure of co-founder Martin Dickie last year, along with James Watt stepping down as CEO, has left industry watchers questioning the company’s future direction.
Why it Matters
The potential sale of Brewdog is not just a corporate transaction; it stands to profoundly impact the livelihoods of its employees and the broader craft beer community. As the company navigates financial turbulence, staff anxieties underscore the importance of transparent communication and ethical management practices. The outcome of these developments will resonate beyond Brewdog, serving as a cautionary tale for the industry regarding the balance between growth, sustainability, and employee welfare.
