BrewDog, the Scottish craft brewery with a major U.S. base in Columbus, has been sold in a $44 million deal that is shaking up its global operations and raising questions about its Central Ohio footprint.
The buyer, Tilray Brands, now owns BrewDog’s UK brewing operations, brand, and 11 pubs after the company went into administration in the United Kingdom. Hundreds of jobs were cut and dozens of bars closed as part of the restructuring.
Massive impact overseas
According to the BBC, 484 jobs were lost and 38 UK bars closed immediately. The deal preserved some positions, but small investors — including those who backed the company through its crowdfunding effort — are not expected to see any return.
Union leaders, including Unite, described the layoffs as devastating for workers.
BrewDog was founded in 2007 by James Watt and Martin Dickie and quickly grew into a global craft beer brand. At its peak, the company was valued at billions — far from the $44 million sale price announced this week.
Brewdog staff 'upset and concerned' by sale plansUnite said workers had been left in the dark over their furtures after the craft beer firm announced plans to explore new investment.
— BBC NEWS (@bbcnewsunofficial.bsky.social) 2026-02-16T11:33:12.924873+00:00
What about Columbus?
The big question locally is what happens to BrewDog’s U.S. operations.
The company already closed its taprooms in Franklinton and Short North earlier this year. But it still operates in central Ohio, including a location in New Albany, its large brewing campus in Canal Winchester, and a spot inside John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
Tilray says it is separately negotiating to acquire certain BrewDog assets in the U.S. and Australia. That means the local operations could eventually fall under new ownership, or remain in limbo depending on how those talks unfold.
From growth story to restructuring
BrewDog built its brand on rapid expansion and bold marketing, once positioning itself as a rebellious challenger to traditional beer giants. It also raised tens of millions through its “Equity for Punks” program, attracting hundreds of thousands of small investors.
But in recent years, losses mounted and expansion slowed. The company reportedly posted major financial losses in 2025, leading to the restructuring that ultimately resulted in the sale.
For Columbus, the outcome likely won’t mean immediate changes — but it does mark a turning point for a company that has been part of the region’s growing craft beer scene for years.
