Martin Dickie, co-founder of Brewdog, has announced his departure from the craft beer company, citing personal reasons for his decision. Dickie, who established the Ellon-based firm with James Watt in 2007, has recently launched a new business focused on medicinal cannabis.
Brewdog has faced various challenges in recent months, leading to the closure of ten bars across the UK, including its flagship location in Aberdeen. The company attributes these closures to rising costs, stricter regulations, and general economic pressures. Last year, James Watt also stepped down from his role as CEO, taking on a newly-created position titled “captain and co-founder.”
In a statement about his departure, Dickie expressed that the decision was difficult but necessary, emphasizing his desire to spend more time with his family. He stated, “After over two decades in the brewing and distilling arena… sadly for personal reasons it’s time for me to leave the industry that I love deeply.” Brewdog’s leadership team has not changed as a result of his departure.
Brewdog is renowned for its craft beers and has businesses across the globe. In recent years, it has faced scrutiny over workplace culture, with former employees speaking out about a “culture of fear” and toxic attitudes. Allegations against James Watt regarding inappropriate behavior have also emerged, to which his legal representatives responded that the claims were untrue.
Dickie’s new venture, Waterside Pharmaceuticals, is set to begin harvesting its first crop at its Aberdeenshire facility. The company received a Controlled Drugs Licence from the UK Home Office to grow cannabis starter material for medicinal production. He aims to become a leader in the UK market, aspiring to offer safe, efficacious, and cost-effective medicinal products for patients. Currently, an estimated 60,000 patients in the UK are prescribed medical cannabis each month following legislative changes in 2018.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg50p64rev3o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss