The CEO of Brewdog James Watt is once again in the news after BBC Scotland’s Disclosure programme revealed allegations of his inappropriate behaviour towards female members of staff.
The documentary revealed that more than 15 ex-Brewdog workers in the United States (US) had spoken out about Watt’s behaviour describing that it made them feel “uncomfortable” and “powerless”.
One former worker, Katelynn Ising who worked in Dog Tap (Brewdog’s flagship bar and brewery in Ohio) explained how it became commonplace for female staff to dress down and avoid wearing make up when they knew Watt was in due to make an appearance in their bars.
Ms Isling explained: “We would make a point to warn new girls — like, ‘Hey, just so you know, James Watt’s coming to town. Just, kind of, leave after your shift, don’t really hang around; don’t always do your hair and makeup that day, like don’t catch his attention’.”
She also told the BBC that she had witnessed Watt taking female customers on late night tours of the brewery: “Sometimes there would be one woman, sometimes there would be a gaggle of women. They were always intoxicated, they were in their twenties usually. They were very pretty and he would say he’s taking them on a private tour of the brewery.”
The BBC also revealed how Watt owned shares in the rival beer firm Heineken. He had previously called out other craft beer firms for working with large international alcohol brands and even went as far as showing marketing where they blew up Heineken products.
Watt has since taken to twitter:
Watt’s lawyer also informed the BBC that the allegations against him were completely false: “Mr Watt regularly takes both women and men, friends and customers, on evening tours of the brewery. It is not true to say that those who accompany him are intoxicated.
The claim that he did, was made by an employee in June 2021. It was fully investigated – the claims were not substantiated – no further action was warranted by Brewdog USA HR.”
Under UK jurisdiction, the allegations made against Watt may amount to potential discrimination however it is extremely important to note that further evidence would be required and that, as the claims are from employees based in the US, they would be dealt with under US law.
We previously wrote about earlier allegations made against Brewdog by Punks with Purpose and that article can be found here.
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The CEO of Brewdog James Watt is once again in the news after BBC Scotland’s Disclosure programme revealed allegations of his inappropriate behaviour towards female members of staff. The documentary revealed that more than 15 ex-Brewdog workers in the United States (US) had spoken out about Watt’s behaviour describing that it made them feel…
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