BrewDog sells minority stake to TSG

TSG Consumer Partners, a private equity firm focused on the branded consumer sector, has acquired a minority stake in independent craft brewer BrewDog.

Headquartered in Ellon, Scotland, BrewDog has successfully grown since inception and has built a loyal following of fans, many of whom have a stake in the company due to its crowdfunding efforts. Its craft brews include flagship beer Punk IPA, alongside Dead Pony Club, Elvis Juice, 5AM Saint, Nanny State and more.

A significant portion of TSG’s investment will be used to fund BrewDog’s continued global expansion. The balance of the TSG investment will provide liquidity for early BrewDog shareholders, including its Equity for Punks crowdfunding investors. Founders James Watt and Martin Dickie will continue to own a controlling stake in the company following the transaction.

“We love to partner with innovative entrepreneurs building best in class brands with loyal followings,” says Blythe Jack, managing director at TSG. “BrewDog’s founders, James and Martin, exude an energy that is equal parts rebellion and business savvy, and we’re eager to partner with the team to build on their enormous success. We’ve identified key growth drivers and look forward to supporting the BrewDog team as they continue to execute their strategy.”

“We are thrilled to welcome TSG as a partner as we keep growing and look towards the US and international markets for further expansion,” adds Watt. “We chose TSG because of their expertise and their passion for our vision, which made it easy to turn down several other higher offers. We just want to continue making amazing beer and invest in the two things we care about most; our beer and our people.”