BrewDog Founder Gives Free Shares in New Beer Venture

Jan de Vries · 2026-05-26

James Watt, the founder of BrewDog, is doing something pretty cool. He's giving away free shares in his new beer company, Second Best, to people who invested in his earlier ventures. It's a move that shows he hasn't forgotten the folks who helped him get started. ### A Surprise for Early Backers Watt's new business, Second Best, isn't just another craft beer brand. It's his way of starting fresh after stepping away from BrewDog. The free shares are a thank you to early supporters. Think of it like a loyalty reward, but instead of points, you get a stake in a new company. - Former investors get shares without paying a dime. - The move builds trust and goodwill. - It's a smart way to kick off a new venture. This isn't common in the business world. Most founders move on and rarely look back. Watt is bucking that trend, and it's getting people talking.  ### Why This Matters For investors, this is a big deal. Getting equity in a new company can be a gamble, but getting it for free lowers the risk. It also creates a community of people who are emotionally invested in Second Best's success. They're not just customers; they're part owners. > "It's about giving back to the people who believed in me first," Watt said in a recent interview. The move also sets a new standard for how founders treat their early backers. It's a lesson in gratitude and smart business strategy.  ### What Comes Next Second Best is still in its early stages. The company is focused on brewing high-quality beer without the hype. Watt wants to keep things simple. That means no flashy marketing or celebrity endorsements. Just good beer and a fair deal for investors. - The first batch of beer is expected later this year. - Shares will be distributed to eligible investors soon. - The company plans to stay small and independent. For Watt, this is personal. He's building something new, but he's not doing it alone. By including his old investors, he's turning them into partners. It's a bold move, and it might just work. ### The Bigger Picture This story is about more than free shares. It's about trust, loyalty, and the power of community. In a world where startups often forget their roots, Watt is showing that gratitude can be a competitive advantage. If you're an investor or just someone who loves a good beer story, keep an eye on Second Best. It could be the start of something special. --- *Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research before investing.*