Ireland - The Beer Thrillers

BrewDog’s James Watt Stepping Down as CEO

B. Kline — Wed, 08 May 2024 14:16:07 +0000

BrewDog CEO James Watt. Photo Courtesy of: BrewDog

BrewDog’s James Watt Stepping Down as CEO

The embattled BrewDog CEO and co-founder James Watt is stepping down from the helm of the brewery he started in a garage after 17 years leading the UK business. After numerous tumultuous years, the CEO of BrewDog – James Watt, is officially stepping down as CEO of the company he co-founded and created.

James Arrow will be stepping up and replacing James Watt. He took over the COO position in September of 2023.

I have decided to transition into a new role in the business, one of ‘captain and co-founder’ – and James Arrow will pick up the reins as CEO as our business pushes forward into our next phase of growth. In my new role, I will remain as a board member, a director and I will also be part-time strategic advisor to the business and to our leadership team.

-soon to be former CEO James Watt

Arrow joined BrewDog from Boots Opticians, where he was managing director. He joined BrewDog in September as COO.

James Watt spoke to me last year about continuing to play a role with the business while freeing up time to concentrate on his other projects and interests. We subsequently put in place a succession plan by recruiting James Arrow as COO and strengthening the wider senior leadership team.

-BrewDog chair Allan Leighton

The latest figures from Companies House show that BrewDog, a major UK beer brand and pub operator, reported revenues of £321.2 million ($401 million) in 2022, an increase from £285.6 million the previous year. However, the company incurred a loss of £24.8 million, a significant rise from the £10.6 million loss in 2021.

Under the leadership of CEO Watt, BrewDog has expanded internationally, exporting to 60 markets and establishing retail locations across Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia.

Despite its expansion, BrewDog has faced challenges, particularly in 2021 when it was criticized for fostering a “toxic” work environment. An open letter from a group named ‘Punks With Purpose,’ signed by 76 ex-employees, criticized the company culture as a “cult of personality” centered around Watt and co-founder Martin Dickie.

The letter highlighted widespread concerns across various departments, stating: “It doesn’t matter which part of the business we worked in; production, bartending, sales, operations, packaging, quality, marketing or HR, we all felt that in our day-to-day working lives, there were at best hurdles and, at worst, genuine safety concerns. In the wake of your success are people left burnt out, afraid and miserable. The true culture of BrewDog is, and seemingly always has been, fear.”

In response to these allegations, Watt expressed his distress and acknowledged the importance of the feedback, stating that BrewDog was apologetic, would not challenge the claims but would “listen, learn and act” to address the issues raised.

In January, it emerged the company was to stop paying some of its hospitality staff the UK’s so-called real living wage to tackle increased costs of company overhead. Watt had been overheard saying things like “we shouldn’t be relied on to let people make a living wage, that should be on them”, as well as several other comments indicating he didn’t feel like his workers should be able to fully live off what they make being employed by BrewDog.

In July of 2023 they had announced that they were wanting to set up a huge hospitality expansion, with up towards 300 bars, hotels, and other franchises worldwide, concluding them all by 2030. This would include locations in the UK, Netherlands, India, Thailand, Australia, Italy, and the United States.

Internal Memo

Dear Equity Punk,

You may have seen the big news. Seventeen years after he co-founded the business, James Watt has decided to step down as chief executive of BrewDog.

He will stay on the BrewDog PLC board in the role of ‘captain & co-founder’ and remains a major shareholder. I am honoured to have been asked by Allan Leighton, our chair, and the Board to step into the role of chief executive. Please find below the company announcement which gives more detail and context.

I am looking forward to building on James’s and Martin’s achievements and leading this business through the next phase of its development.

I hope to meet as many of you as possible at the AGM next month, where I’ll share more about my vision and the journey ahead.

James Arrow BREWDOG ANNOUNCES THAT JAMES ARROW WILL SUCCEED JAMES WATT AS CEO JAMES WATT TO MOVE INTO NON-EXECUTIVE ROLE

8 May 10.00, Ellon: BrewDog has today announced that James Arrow, currently COO, will succeed James Watt as CEO of the company, as part of a succession plan put in place last year.

Seventeen years after he co-founded the business, James Watt has decided to step down as chief executive. He will stay on the BrewDog PLC board in the role of ‘captain & co-founder’ and remains a major shareholder.

Allan Leighton, BrewDog chair, said: “James Watt spoke to me last year about continuing to play a role with the business while freeing up time to concentrate on his other projects and interests. We subsequently put in place a succession plan by recruiting James Arrow as COO and strengthening the wider senior leadership team.”

James Arrow joined BrewDog from Boots Opticians, where he was managing director, in September 2023. Prior to that he spent a decade at Dixons Carphone in a variety of senior roles including e-commerce, trading, operations, sales and transformation.

“James Arrow is a proven leader,” said Allan Leighton. “His eight months as COO have given him a great insight into the business. The Board is delighted to have him as CEO, to lead the Company into its next phase of growth.” Allan Leighton continued: “James Watt, alongside Martin Dickie, created this great business from a garage in Fraserburgh. Few have accomplished what he has. From very humble beginnings under his leadership BrewDog has grown to become the world’s leading craft brewer, employing 2530 people across its head office, four breweries and over 120 bars. I am especially pleased he will continue to offer his insight, creative genius and energy to the Board. We all wish him every success in his new ventures and in his NED role on the Board.”

James Arrow said: “James and Martin have created a fantastic business. I am looking forward to building on their achievements and leading this business through the next phase of its development.”

James Watt said: “I want to thank all the incredible people who have helped Martin and me create this unique business. I have loved co-founding this amazing business and leading it for the last 17 years. I am excited to take a bit of time off, to travel, to spend more time with my family and friends. I am also looking forward to being able to dedicate some more time to my other business interests.’

For more information contact brewdog@powerscourt-group.com

See Previous Article on Closure of BrewDog Pittsburgh

BrewDog Pittsburgh Has Closed

BrewDog Controversies

BrewDog is certainly not new to controversies, most of which have been well catalogued. From the recent Reddit post discussing the BrewDog Pittsburgh closure, you can even find a listing of some of their recent scandals:

Some examples:

stealing ideas from fake job interviews

the owner is a terrible person

more about the owner

open letter to the company and owner from former employees

BrewDog Pittsburgh is Closed Closed (/r/Beer)

From that same Reddit page, it also seems that BrewDog Pittsburgh employees were given no notice of the closure until heads up. A Twitter thread follows it here: It appears they also gave their employees no notice whatsoever, in typical BrewDog fashion.

BrewDog vs. Guinness

BrewDog marketing has been actively attempting to ‘sway’ drinkers away from Guinness using social media, ads, and other forms and attempts. Social media ads were designated to discourage drinkers from Guinness through means of discounts, and offering free beer if they didn’t drink Guinness. Their social media posts showed their workers and friends drinking BrewDog in front of Guinness locations and showing their displeasure for Guinness. They started the ad campaign around February of 2023.

This all comes on the heels of weeks after weeks of social media posts and advertisements of BrewDog branding all but calling out Guinness Brewing. With posts showing them drinking their own beer – Black Heart Stout – in front of Guinness locations and stating how much better theirs is. This ‘advertisement tactic’ has drawn much ire in the online community and there was much blow back on social media pages.

BrewDog Pittsburgh Has Closed (March, 2023)

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Beer Review: Guinness Draught (Guinness)

B. Kline — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 06:04:42 +0000

Having a Guinness Draught with Ming and Don on St. Patrick’s Day

A Timeless Classic Revisited: Guinness Draught

In the ever-evolving landscape of craft beers, with its kaleidoscope of flavors, styles, and innovations, there remains one stalwart that continues to command respect and admiration for its enduring quality and unique character: Guinness Draught. As we dive into this beer review, we revisit this iconic stout, exploring the depths of its rich history, distinctive pour, and the sensory experience it offers.

Guinness is oft an overlooked beer, especially by the craft beer drinkers, those fickle and funny group of “beer nerds”. For me its a standard, an old faithful, an old friend to revisit every so often. Particularly every St. Patrick’s Day I enjoy myself an Irish Car Bomb (or two or three), and then a straight up pint of Guinness. But there are other times and places I enjoy the delicious dark Irish brew. But there are other times as well when I reach for the old fan favorite. Dark, stormy, wintry rainy or snowy nights, at the Irish pub off the boardwalk in Atlantic City (A.C.), or when needing a nice roasty drink to go along with shepherd’s pie.

Colorado Beer Guy is currently doing a 40-Day Beer Only Lent Fast, where he is drinking only Guinness and water, and eating nothing. You can follow along with him at his beer group devoted to that task: 40-Day Beer Only Fast (Facebook Group).

Beer Review: Guinness Draught

Having a Guinness Draught with Ming and Don on St. Patrick’s Day

Beer: Guinness Draught
Brewery: Guinness
Style: Stout – Irish Dry
ABV: 4.2%
IBU: 45
Untappd Description:

Swirling clouds tumble as the storm begins to calm. Settle. Breathe in the moment, then break through the smooth, light head to the bittersweet reward.

Unmistakeably GUINNESS, from the first velvet sip to the last, lingering drop. And every deep-dark satisfying mouthful in between.

Pure beauty. Pure GUINNESS.

Guinness Draught is sold in kegs, widget cans, and bottles. The ABV varies from 4.1 to 4.3%.

Guinness Extra Cold is the exact same beer only served through a super cooler at 3.5 °C

Appearance

The appearance of Guinness Draught is nothing short of iconic, a visual poetry that captures the essence of what a stout should be. As it settles in the glass, the beer’s deep, ebony darkness is crowned by a dense, creamy head, starkly contrasting in its color. This head is remarkably persistent, lasting until the final sip, leaving a lacing that clings to the glass like a memory. The allure of its cascade, where the bubbles seem to defy physics, moving downwards before settling, is a unique spectacle. This visual allure is not merely aesthetic but a prelude to the sensory journey that Guinness offers, setting the stage for what promises to be an exceptional beer experience.

From the moment a pint of Guinness Draught is set before you, its visual appeal is undeniable. The beer’s performance begins with its signature cascade, a mesmerizing ballet of tiny bubbles dancing their way to the top, culminating in the formation of a thick, creamy head. This spectacle is not just a treat for the eyes but a testament to the nitrogen gas blend used in its serving, which sets Guinness apart from its carbon dioxide-infused counterparts. The result is a smoother, creamier texture that has become synonymous with the Guinness Draught experience.

Color

The color of Guinness Draught is almost as famous as the brand itself—a deep, opaque ebony that, when held up to the light, reveals a rich, ruby red hue. It’s a color palette that promises depth and complexity, inviting the drinker to delve deeper into what this stout has to offer.

Aroma

The aroma of Guinness Draught gently wafts through the air, a subtle yet intricate blend of scents that prepares the palate for the first taste. It’s a bouquet that doesn’t overpower but entices, with roasted barley taking the forefront, followed by undercurrents of rich coffee and a hint of dark chocolate. This trifecta of aromas is beautifully balanced, creating an inviting and warm olfactory experience. The slight earthiness and a whisper of hops add complexity, making each inhalation a discovery of layers that speaks volumes of the craftsmanship behind this legendary stout.

On the nose, Guinness Draught is subtle yet inviting. It offers hints of roasted barley, coffee, and a touch of chocolate, creating an aromatic profile that balances richness with approachability. This is not a beer that overwhelms; instead, it gently beckons you to take the first sip.

Mouthfeel

One of the most distinctive features of Guinness Draught is its mouthfeel. The use of nitrogen over the more common carbon dioxide in its carbonation process results in a beer that’s velvety smooth and almost silky to the tongue. This creaminess is a hallmark of the Guinness experience, making each sip a luxurious indulgence. Despite its robust appearance and flavor profile, the beer has a surprisingly light body that doesn’t weigh down the palate. This combination of smoothness and lightness makes Guinness Draught exceptionally drinkable, a stout that can be savored slowly over time without becoming overwhelming.

And what a sip it is. Guinness Draught delivers a taste that is both robust and nuanced. The initial flavors mirror the nose, with roasted malt and coffee notes leading the way. There’s a mild sweetness that rounds out the bitterness, and a faint, almost imperceptible smokiness that adds another layer of complexity. Despite its bold flavors, Guinness maintains a medium body that, when combined with its creamy texture, makes for an exceptionally smooth and drinkable stout.

Taste

The taste of Guinness Draught is where its true character shines through—a masterful blend of bitterness balanced with a subtle sweetness. The roasted barley that hints at its presence in the aroma comes to the forefront in the taste, delivering a rich, malted flavor with notes of coffee and a dark chocolate undertone. There’s a complexity here that is deceptively simple, with each sip revealing a new layer or nuance. The bitterness is perfectly pitched, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the malt’s richness, while the finish brings a dryness that cleanses the palate and invites further exploration. It’s a taste profile that is both satisfying and sophisticated, making each pint a journey in itself.

The finish of Guinness Draught is as satisfying as its beginning, with a pleasantly dry aftertaste that invites another sip. This beer does not linger overly long on the palate, but it leaves a memorable impression, encouraging a slow and savoring consumption.

In a beer landscape that often prizes novelty over tradition, Guinness Draught stands as a testament to the power of consistency, quality, and character. It’s a beer that transcends trends, offering the same rich, full-flavored experience that has captivated drinkers for generations. Whether you’re a stout aficionado or a casual beer drinker, Guinness Draught is a brew that deserves a place at your table. It’s not just a beer; it’s a piece of brewing history that continues to delight and surprise with every pint.

Overall

In the realm of stouts, Guinness Draught occupies a place of honor, a testament to its enduring appeal and the timeless quality of its brew. From its captivating appearance and inviting aroma to its smooth mouthfeel and balanced taste, Guinness is a beer that appeals to both the seasoned aficionado and the casual drinker alike. It’s a brew that transcends the ordinary, offering an experience that is both comforting in its familiarity and exciting in its depth. Overall, Guinness Draught is not just a beer; it’s a tradition, a piece of cultural heritage that continues to inspire and delight. Whether enjoyed in the bustling atmosphere of a pub or the quiet of one’s home, it remains a stout that stands apart, a classic that continues to define and elevate the very idea of what a beer can be.

In conclusion, this beer review reaffirms what many have known for years: Guinness Draught is more than just a stout; it’s an institution, an icon, and above all, a delightful drink that stands the test of time. Whether enjoyed in a cozy pub or at home, Guinness Draught remains a benchmark for quality, a beer that embodies the heart and soul of stout.

My Untappd Rating: ****
Global Untappd Rating: 3.77 (as of 2.3.24)

More Information on Guinness Brewing

The following comes via Untappd.

Guinness is a macro brewery from Dublin, County Dublin Ireland. They are a subsidiary of Diageo. They have 112 unique beers and over 2,900,000 ratings, with a global average rating of 3.52 (as of 2.3.24). Their Untappd description reads: “The Guinness® brand enjoys a global reputation as a uniquely authentic beer and the best-selling stout in the world. Famous for its dark color, creamy head and unique surge and settle, this distinctive beer originated at the St. James’s Gate brewery in Dublin, Ireland. Over 10 million glasses of Guinness beer are enjoyed every single day around the world, and 1.8 billion pints are sold every year. Guinness beer is available in well over 100 countries worldwide and is brewed in almost 50. About Diageo Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits, beer and wine categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB, Buchanan’s, Windsor and Bushmills whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness. Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.”

You can find them at these social media platforms:

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Ireland - The Beer Thrillers

BrewDog’s James Watt Stepping Down as CEO

BrewDog’s James Watt Stepping Down as CEO

Internal Memo

See Previous Article on Closure of BrewDog Pittsburgh

BrewDog Controversies

BrewDog vs. Guinness

Brewery News

Thank You for Reading

Beer Review: Guinness Draught (Guinness)

A Timeless Classic Revisited: Guinness Draught

Beer Review: Guinness Draught

Appearance

Color

Aroma

Mouthfeel

Taste

Overall

Other Guinness Related Articles

More Information on Guinness Brewing

Thank You for Reading