Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney Expand Wrexham Empire with Brewery Acquisition
Actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, known for their ownership of Wrexham AFC, are diving deeper into Wrexham’s local heritage by co-owning Wrexham Lager Beer Company Ltd., Britain’s oldest lager brewery, founded in 1882.
The duo, who have transformed Wrexham AFC’s fortunes and spotlighted the club in their hit Disney+ series Welcome to Wrexham, announced the new venture with characteristic humour.
“We’ve learned a lot,” they said, “the connection between club and community, the intricacies of the offsides rule and the occasional need for beer — especially after finance meetings.”
Acquisition part of Red Dragon Ventures
The acquisition of Wrexham Lager is part of a broader growth strategy by the Hollywood stars. Their new joint venture, Red Dragon Ventures, includes the New York-based Allyn family, who have invested in Wrexham AFC and Wrexham Lager.
The Allyns will hold a minority stake in the football club and assist in expanding the brewery’s production and distribution, aiming to bring Wrexham Lager to North American markets. This move aligns with Reynolds and McElhenney's mission to raise Wrexham’s profile internationally, with Wrexham Lager set to enter the U.S. and Canada soon.
The brewery, which once famously supplied beer to the Titanic’s maiden voyage, already sponsors Wrexham AFC.
“Wrexham Lager has a 140-year-old recipe and a storied history, and we’re excited to help write its next chapter,” Reynolds and McElhenney said.
According to James Wright, CEO of Wrexham Lager, the actors’ support will be “huge” for the brand’s global expansion.
Reynolds and McElhenney’s investment in Wrexham Lager builds on the momentum they’ve created around Wrexham AFC, which recently climbed from the fifth tier of English football to the third division in just two seasons.
“They’ve been doing wonders for the town of Wrexham,” said Wright. The Allyn family echoed this sentiment, with Eric Allyn, the family’s chief investment officer, comparing Wrexham’s community spirit to their own efforts in the Syracuse region.
Wrexham Lager’s owners, the Roberts family, who took over the brewery in 2011, will remain active in its management, ensuring the brand’s heritage stays intact while expanding its reach.
