BrewDog applications up over 75% as it delivers first 'blueprint' profit share

The bar group and brewer announced the launch of its 'blueprint' scheme back in May​​, which includes a new employee ownership programme.

Under the plan, co-founder James Watt has given 3.7 million shares in the company - a fifth of his personal stake in the business - to be distributed evenly to BrewDog’s 750 salaried crew members

Meanwhile, each of the group's bars will share 50% of its profits with crew members, to be paid twice a year, with the first payments having now been made to 1,700 staff, totalling more than £300k.

The first new 'blueprint' bonus (covering May and June) was paid this week and has resulted in an average of £188 per team member, with full-time staff at its more profitable locations receiving up to £1,500.

BrewDog describes the scheme as 'setting the bar higher for hospitality workers everywhere', adding that job applications are up by more than 75%. It has also experienced a reduction in staff turnover and absenteeism.

“We have been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the blueprint and this new bonus scheme,” says Watt.

“It’s early days, but in just two months, the scheme is paying out material bonuses, which on an annualised basis will help not only to attract and retain the very best in our industry, but also will provide much needed support to our people as we all face huge increases in the cost of living.

“This is a revolutionary reward model, but one which we hope will ultimately be used as an example to the rest of the industry and we invite others to follow our lead.”

BrewDog came under fire last year​​ when former employees alleged that it fostered a 'culture of fear' among staff.

An open letter from a group calling itself ‘Punks without Purpose’ claimed a 'significant number' of former staff had 'suffered mental illness as a result of working at BrewDog', which was signed by more than 100 former BrewDog staff