BrewDog creates 40 jobs as three bars prepare to open

BrewDog, the Fraserburgh-based brewer, has unveiled plans to create 40 jobs as it opens bars in Birmingham, Bristol and Leeds and expands its head office operations.

The firm, which has courted controversy with several high-strength limited-edition beers, expects to double its turnover this year to £12 million and is building an £8m brewery in Aberdeenshire.

Co-founder James Watt said: “Five years ago, BrewDog was Martin Dickie, myself, some second hand equipment and Bracken the dog.

“Now we’re Scotland’s largest independent brewery, selling our craft beer in 27 different countries and owning eight amazing craft beer bars across the country. We’re opening three more bars in three months adding 40 members of staff.”

Since raising £2.2m through a second round of the firm’s “equity for punks” rights issue last year, the firm has opened bars in Manchester, Newcastle and Nottingham.