Carlton & United Breweries (CUB) is rolling out 2000 barrels of free beer to help pubs and clubs survive the coronavirus crisis.
Having already raised more than $1 million in cash for struggling pubs and clubs through its For The Love of Your Local campaign, CUB has announced it will double its fundraising target to $2 million as restrictions continue to impact the Queensland hospitality industry. The investment will give Aussie venues badly needed cash right now plus more than 100,000 litres – or 200,000 pints – of CUB beer to pour for their patrons after they reopen.
CUB CEO Peter Filipovic said that despite Queensland restrictions easing, many pubs and clubs still face enormous challenges. “The ongoing restrictions will continue to significantly limit trade and, for some venues, re-opening will have to wait until restrictions are further lifted,” he said. “Those that do re-open will do so with reduced numbers. Queensland pubs and clubs have already been shut for two months and the fact is many of these beloved venues won’t make it through this crisis without extra help. So, we’re calling on Australians to help save their local.”
People can support their local by visiting loveofyourlocal.com.au and nominating their favourite venue, then buy a pint of CUB beer using their credit card or PayPal account, with the funds going to the venue directly. CUB then matches that support, pint for pint in donated stock after the venue re-opens, making it a win-win for pubs and clubs as well as for beer lovers.
The lockdown has devastated Australia’s $20 billion plus pub and club industry, which employs many of the nation’s one million hospitality workers. Queensland Hotels Association CEO Bernie Hogan said the $2 million cash injection would help thousands of pubs pay mounting bills.
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