Craft beer retailer Beerhunter has launched a discount for those who invested in Brewdog’s famous Equity for Punks crowdfunding programme. 

The initiative, named Pints for Punks, comes after news that many of the Brewdog investments will likely be wiped out following the sale of the business. 

This comes despite Equity for Punks having raised £75m for Brewdog, with over 200,000 investors backing the brand across seven rounds. 

Ryan Smith, founder of Beerhunter, said that he wanted to launch the discount to offer solidarity with members of the craft beer community who backed the Scottish brewery. 

He said: “The recent Brewdog sale has undoubtedly left a bad taste for many Equity Punks who believed in the brand from the beginning. While we can’t replace their investment, we wanted to offer something positive back to the community that helped build the modern craft beer movement. 

“Craft beer has always been about discovery, independence and passionate drinkers supporting great breweries. Our Pints for Punks initiative is a small way to say thank you and encourage people to explore the wider world of craft beer.” 

At the same time, James Watt, co-founder and former CEO of the Brewdog brand, has conceded to “many mistakes”. 

In a statement via social media, Watt said: “During my 17 years in charge there were highs, lows, successes, failures, huge gambles and many mistakes along the way. Ultimately, the mistakes hurt far more than the successes console. 

“I would have loved to save every single job and every single Equity Punk investment. Ultimately, I couldn’t. That will stay with me.”