The Covid-19 news round-up
The news and data you need to know about the coronavirus outbreak's impact on the drinks industry
News and numbers
$9bn
The world’s largest brewer, AB InBev, has taken out its entire $9bn loan facility to stave off the effects of world leaders urging their electorates to stay away from bars and restaurants in the wake of Covid-19.
$40m
According to WineAmerica, US wineries lost $40m in March due to Covid-19, however the figure could be far greater as only 10% of the nation’s wineries responded to the information request.
Diago pledges 8m bottles of hand sanitizer
Drinks manufacturer Diageo has joined many others in announcing plans to produce hand sanitiser, pledging to donate over two million litres of 96% grain neutral spirit – enough to make more than 8m 250ml bottles of hand sanitiser – to help protect ‘frontline’ health workers.
Brewdog takes over 100 bars online
Craft Brewer Brewdog has opened 102 'online bars', allowing consumers to continue 'visiting' their local bar amid Covid-19 lockdowns. The Company's founders are also foregoing their 2020 salaries in an attempt to help protect jobs at the company.
Anheuser-Busch InBev scraps full-year outlook
Anheuser-Busch withdraws its full-year outlook as Covid-19 continues to spread uncertainty about the short-term future among global alcohol companies.
Carlsberg donates $13.6m to efforts against Covid-19
Danish brewer Carlsberg has announced that its foundations will be providing grants to support researchers, art museums and civil society to fast-track efforts against Covid-19.
$45m
Pepsico is providing $45m to help fight the global battle against coronavirus. The funds will provide protective gear for healthcare workers, and testing and screening services.
European Milk Board calls for milk volume reduction
The European Milk Board has called on the European Commission to urgently prepare to launch a voluntary volume reduction scheme with capping, as it seeks to mitigate the damaging impacts of Covid-19.
$1.5m
Danone North America has lined up a $1.5m package to support food charities in the US. The company is donating $1.2m in funds, plus an additional $300,000 in product donations.
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