BrewDog has posted a pre-tax loss of GBP 6.7 million (USD 8.4 million) for its US operations in 2024, highlighting persistent struggles abroad. The craft brewer from Ellon, Aberdeenshire, continues to face operational inefficiencies, with its Columbus, Ohio, facility running at only 30% capacity.
In response, James Taylor, the newly appointed CEO, has launched a recovery strategy called “Operation Slingshot.” The program focuses on contract brewing—which has surged by 544%—and significantly cutting sales coverage from 33 states down to 14. While overall sales in the US rose slightly by 2% to GBP 38 million (USD 47.6 million), Taylor claimed a modest operating profit of GBP 376,000 (USD 471,000), stating, “It’s not a disappointing result at all.”
BrewDog had invested GBP 4.2 million (USD 5.3 million) into its US branch in 2024, but insiders have described the outcome as “dire.” At the start of the year, John Graham stepped down as head of the US unit after less than two years in the role.
The US setbacks follow broader financial troubles for the company. In 2023, BrewDog reported a global pre-tax loss of GBP 59.2 million (USD 74 million), more than double the previous year’s loss. Although revenues climbed from GBP 321 million to GBP 355 million, costs rose faster, and the company was forced to write down the value of several underperforming bars.
The poor results marked the final year under co-founder James Watt, who stepped down in May 2024. Watt’s tenure, though associated with massive growth, also faced repeated criticism over workplace culture and governance issues. His successor, James Arrow, has focused on restoring profitability, reporting a 10% rise in grocery channel sales in the first half of 2024.
Despite the heavy losses, Taylor remains optimistic, describing the American market as holding “a huge opportunity.” However, BrewDog must now rebuild investor confidence and reassess its international strategy amid a broader slowdown in the craft beer sector.
