BrewDog to exit spirits production
BrewDog has recently announced plans to close its distilling operation and discontinue a number of its spirits brands, a move that has sparked concern over potential job losses and signals a strategic refocus on its core beer business.
BrewDog’s decision highlights the challenges facing smaller distilling brands in a crowded market and the strategic recalibration underway among major players
The Scottish brewer confirmed it will wind down production of its spirits portfolio, which includes brands such as LoneWolf Gin, Abstrakt Vodka and Duo Rum, as part of a wider effort to streamline operations and prioritise growth areas with stronger commercial returns.
The decision will see BrewDog step back from distilling at its Ellon site, where spirits production has been based.
In a statement, BrewDog said the move reflects changing market dynamics and a desire to concentrate investment behind beer and its expanding ready-to-drink (RTD) offering.
The company has increasingly positioned itself around beer innovation, alcohol-free products and canned cocktails, which it views as better aligned with consumer demand and long-term growth.
While BrewDog has not confirmed the exact number of roles affected, the announcement has raised fears for jobs linked to the distilling side of the business.
The company said it would engage with impacted employees and explore redeployment opportunities where possible.
The closure comes amid ongoing pressures across the drinks sector, including rising costs, shifting consumer preferences and increased competition in premium spirits categories.
BrewDog’s decision highlights the challenges facing smaller distilling brands in a crowded market and the strategic recalibration underway among major players.
Despite exiting spirits production, BrewDog said it remains committed to its brewing operations and international expansion, with beer, RTDs and alcohol-free products firmly at the centre of its future plans.
