Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have invested in Wrexham Lager, the oldest British lager brewery still in existence.
The investment was made by Red Dragon Ventures, a joint venture formed by Reynolds and McElhenney and the New York-based Allyn family. BBC reports that the famous pair have taken co-ownership of Wrexham Lager, which 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,” said the actors. They joked that they had “learned a lot” from their football experience:
“The connection between club and community, the intricacies of the offside rule and the occasional need for beer — especially after finance meetings.”
In a nod to the brewery’s foundations, the caption read: “We’re now proud co-owners of Wrexham Lager, brewed since 1882, which is why we’re using 1882 technology.”
Deadpool actor Reynolds, and producer and It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia star McElhenney have charted the club’s progress in the Disney+ series Welcome to Wrexham.
The pair were also honoured by Wrexham council with the freedom of the city in 2022. James Wright, chief executive of Wrexham Lager Beer Co Ltd, said having them on board would be “huge” for the business as it embarks on international expansion.
He added: “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.”
The Roberts family, who have owned and operated the business since 2011, said they would maintain an active role within the business.