Hollywood celebrities Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have invested in Wrexham again – this time a brewery.
Four years after saving the Welsh town’s then struggling non-league football club, the stars have opened their wallets once more by becoming co-owners of Wrexham Lager.
The Wrexham Lager Beer Co Ltd is reportedly the oldest surviving lager brewery in Britain and has been in operation since 1882.
The acquisition was made by the New York-based Allyn family and Red Dragon Ventures, a joint enterprise set up by Reynolds and McElhenney to spearhead growth in both Wrexham AFC and the local community.
The transaction will significantly ramp up Wrexham Lager’s infrastructure and international production, distribution, and marketing efforts.
“As Co-chairmen of Wrexham AFC we have learned a lot,” said Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds in a statement. “The connection between club and community, the intricacies of the offsides rule and the occasional need for beer – especially after finance meetings. Wrexham Lager has a 140-year-old recipe and a storied history and we’re excited to help write its next chapter.”
The Roberts family, which resurrected Wrexham Lager 14 years ago, after production ceased in 2000, will remain co-owners of the brewery.
“This is a brand with great heritage – the oldest lager brewery in Great Britain, once enjoyed across the world,” said CEO James Wright. “So, to have Rob and Ryan onboard as we embark on international expansion is huge for us. They have been doing wonders for the town of Wrexham and strongly share our passion for once again seeing Wrexham Lager enjoyed in all the far-flung corners of the globe.”
