Alcohol Industry CEOs Unite to Support Restaurant Sector Recovery

Pernod Ricard, along with CEOs from 11 other major global beer, wine, and spirits companies, announced a collaborative effort to support the recovery of the hospitality sector affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative aims to help rebuild the cafe, bar, and restaurant culture that communities have missed during periods of closure.

The group, which includes industry giants like Anheuser-Busch InBev, Diageo, and Heineken, stated their commitment to playing a role in safeguarding livelihoods and supporting the millions of businesses within their value chain. They highlighted the significant impact of shutdowns on the hospitality sector, emphasizing its importance to both the economy and the social fabric of communities.

"Only a whole-of-society, united, and collaborative approach can deliver an effective global response," the companies stated in a joint release. The initiative will focus on rebuilding a safe and thriving hospitality environment and promoting responsible consumption. This includes supporting physical distancing measures as venues reopen and leveraging marketing and training programs to prevent harmful drinking.

The companies also committed to accelerating efforts in developing global e-commerce standards and safeguards for online marketing, sales, and delivery, inviting digital platforms and delivery agents to join. They expressed a commitment to ongoing dialogue with governments and civil society to raise standards and protect lives, livelihoods, and communities.