Beer magnate from Skælskør resigns amidst criticism

Bernd Griese, known as the ‘beer king of Zealand’, will resign as chairman of Harboe Brewery, according to a company statement released on Thursday. The decision follows sharp criticism and calls for his resignation. At 82, Griese remarks that the company is back on track with positive growth and earnings prospects for the coming years, making it a suitable moment for him to step down and pass the company on to the next generation. Griese will hand over the reins during the company’s annual general meeting on August 22. In recent years, Griese faced severe criticism for alleged nepotism, ignoring shareholder complaints, entangling his private affairs with the brewery, and using company funds for transactions with his private companies. Griese denies any wrongdoing, supported by his consultants’ advice. At the August meeting, the board intends to nominate lawyer Martin Lavesen of DLA Piper as a new board member.