Punk IPA distribution shrinks sharply

Punk IPA has disappeared from nearly 2,000 UK pubs, according to exclusive pub industry data.

Punk IPA vanishes from almost 2,000 pubs

Exclusive data shows BrewDog drinks have been dropped by about 1,980 venues in the past two years, a 52.3 percent fall in distribution. The waves of closures include BrewDog’s flagship Aberdeen store along with ten bars overall, with the company saying some sites were not commercially viable. The change leaves Punk IPA with fewer outlets and increases dependence on a narrower set of partners.

The data also highlights a shift in pub buyers toward brands from Beavertown and Camden Town, as groups narrow drink lists amid rising costs and cautious consumer spending. BrewDog says it is focusing on high‑impact channels such as festivals, stadiums and independent pubs to weather tougher economics. The backdrop includes a history of workplace culture controversy and substantial losses in 2023 (£59m) and 2022 (£30.5m), complicating any quick recovery plan.

The slide in distribution exposes a wider challenge for craft beer brands in a market where pubs trim ranges and retailers weigh price against value. BrewDog’s heavy reliance on a few large pub partners, notably JD Wetherspoon, creates a single point of failure if those relationships weaken. That dependence intensifies the potential hit to Punk IPA if major buyers rethink shelf space or pricing.

Beyond the numbers, the brand carries reputational risk from past workplace culture allegations. In a crowded field, BrewDog must balance a sharper cost focus with a credible narrative about culture and quality. The company’s pivot to events and venues could help, but success will hinge on maintaining visibility without inflating costs or inviting new critics to question the brand’s long‑term viability.

Highlights

Markets evolve and brands either adapt or fade from the map of accessible taps.