Former Shareholders Question
BrewDog co founder James Watt is facing data privacy complaints after reports claimed he contacted former shareholders while trying to regain control of the Scottish craft beer company.
The UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) confirmed that it is reviewing information following complaints linked to the reported contact with former investors. Some shareholders questioned how Watt obtained their personal details, raising concerns about possible data protection issues.
Buyback Proposal Comes Months
Earlier this year, US drinks company Tilray acquired key parts of BrewDog after the brewery entered administration with debts exceeding £500 million. The deal, worth around £33 million, resulted in hundreds of job losses and the closure of 36 bars.
The takeover also left around 200,000 crowdfunding investors with worthless shares. Tilray purchased BrewDog’s brand, intellectual property, UK breweries, and 11 bars as part of the agreement.
James Watt Wants to Regain Control
On Wednesday, Watt announced an offer to buy BrewDog through his new brewing business, Second Best. He said that more than 43,000 Equity Punk investors had joined together to support the proposal.
The move aims to bring BrewDog back under the control of its original founder only a few months after Tilray completed its acquisition.
Privacy Concerns Draw Regulatory Attention
According to reports, several former shareholders said they were surprised to receive messages from Watt because they had never shared their contact details with his new company.
These concerns prompted complaints to the ICO, the UK authority responsible for enforcing data protection laws. The regulator has confirmed that it is reviewing the information it has received. James Watt has not publicly responded to the allegations.
BrewDog’s Rise and Recent Challenges
James Watt and Martin Dickie founded BrewDog in Aberdeenshire in 2007. Over the years, the business expanded rapidly and became one of the world’s best known craft beer brands.
At its peak, BrewDog operated four breweries and around 100 bars across the globe. The company was once valued at more than $1 billion. However, financial difficulties eventually pushed the business into administration, leading to significant losses for employees and investors.
Watt stepped down as BrewDog’s chief executive in 2024 but remained involved with the company as its captain and co founder. His latest buyback proposal marks another attempt to shape BrewDog’s future despite the recent takeover.
