Jeremy Clarkson's Brewery Enters Race for Prestigious Lord's Beer Contract
Jeremy Clarkson's Hawkstone brewery has emerged as a serious contender to take over as the official beer supplier at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground in London. This development follows the recent termination of the venue's partnership with BrewDog after the Scottish brewer was sold to a major American cannabis corporation.
BrewDog's Sudden Exit Creates Opportunity
The Marylebone Cricket Club, which owns and operates Lord's, ended its agreement with BrewDog just over a year into what was originally planned as a four-year contract. The decision came shortly after BrewDog was acquired by Tilray, a US-based medical cannabis and drinks firm, for approximately £33 million - a fraction of the company's previous £2 billion valuation.
Robert Lawson, chief executive and secretary of the MCC, informed members that the club believed this move was necessary "to ensure certainty and continuity ahead of the 2026 season." He emphasized that a competitive tender process would now begin to appoint a new supplier for the coming season and beyond.
Clarkson's Hawkstone Faces Stiff Competition
Clarkson's Gloucestershire-based Hawkstone brewery, which was the fastest-growing brewery in the country last year, will compete against industry giants including Heineken and Carlsberg-Britvic for the prestigious contract. The former Top Gear presenter co-owns the brewery with local partners and has built the brand since its 2021 launch.
Hawkstone's product range includes premium British lagers and ciders, along with a recently introduced zero percent alcohol option. The brand has achieved significant distribution, appearing in supermarkets and approximately one in ten pubs across the United Kingdom, with exports reaching ten European countries.
Lord's Seeks Stability After Record Sales Year
Despite the partnership ending, Lawson acknowledged that 2025 saw record beer sales at Lord's, reflecting what he described as "a strong first year of the partnership" with BrewDog. However, he stressed that the club's priority was "to guarantee the high-quality matchday experience that Members and visitors rightly expect."
The MCC has assured members there will be "no disruption to service" during the transition period and that existing relationships with real ale providers Adnam's and Thornbridge will continue unaffected.
Industry Significance of Lord's Partnership
The Lord's beer supplier contract represents a particularly valuable opportunity within the brewing industry, given the venue's international reputation, prestige, and the substantial consumption by visitors attending matches and events. The 31,000-capacity ground attracts cricket enthusiasts from around the world, creating significant brand exposure for any supplier.
BrewDog's troubles extended beyond the Lord's contract termination, with the company closing 38 UK bars and letting go 484 staff members following its acquisition by Tilray. The brand's association with cannabis interests appears to have influenced the MCC's decision to seek a new supplier for the historic cricket venue.
Clarkson, who famously operates his own farm in the Cotswolds alongside his media career, now faces the challenge of convincing the MCC selection committee that his brewery can meet the exacting standards required for one of cricket's most hallowed venues.
