COVID-19 has shaken the world. We’re helping to re-stabilise it.
As cases of COVID-19 rise around the world, and closer to home, we’ve realised our part in the fight to return to normal. South Africa is our home, and we have a responsibility to contribute wherever, and however we can.
Put your hands together
Part of our core ideology is rooted in community building and upliftment, and it doesn’t rely solely on supplying quality beer or running successful upliftment programmes. We’ve realised that we are in a unique position to change the way we make use of the resources available to us.
Ethanol is a key ingredient in powerful hand sanitizers, and is needed the world over. It’s also a type of alcohol created during the brewing process of our Castle Free brand. We’re currently in talks with our suppliers to find the best possible fit for the manufacturing of our hand sanitizers, but we have already donated over 60 000 bottles to those who need it most.
Our extensive fleet and delivery network mean that we have access to communities otherwise overlooked, and we’re helping however we can. These bottles of sanitizer are not for sale, and there will be no profit made from them.
Facing the facts
There’s a high demand for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at the moment – gloves, masks, and face shields, especially for our frontline health workers who put themselves at high risk of COVID-19 every single day.
To that end, we have joined the PPE production line, using recycled crates to make 100 000 headbands for plastic face shields, which we’ll be donating to healthcare workers who need it.
Responsible Trading, Working, and Education
When the country is opened up again and return-to-trade becomes a solid reality, SAB will be donating hand sanitizer and PPE to taverns nationwide, ensuring that those who contribute to South Africa’s township economy are kept safe from COVID-19.
We’re also working on a “Click and Collect” eCommerce system, making it easier and safer for South Africans to buy SAB products without risk of contracting the virus. Orders are placed online via smartphone, a pick-up point is selected – your nearest tavern – and a time is allocated, ensuring social distancing is observed.
We’ll also be creating and distributing educational videos and infographics designed to raise awareness around the “do’s and don’ts” of the virus, ensuring that wherever in South Africa you are, you’re safe.
SAB Tavern initiative
It’s no secret that the economy has been hit hard – with small businesses being hit hardest. SAB is supported by many of these small businesses, especially taverns, and it’s been difficult to see the struggles they’re facing – especially with the knowledge that many tavern owners are the sole breadwinners of their respective households.
Many have not had an income for weeks, and the reinstated alcohol ban has prolonged their inability to trade.
We’ve always been big supporters of the small retailers and taverns who stock our products, and now we’re taking that support one step further and have donated 17 000 food vouchers to taverns across South Africa.
Carling Black Label #NoExcuse
Gender-based Violence is a massive problem in South Africa, with 2300 complaints in the first week of lockdown alone. Many victims are now facing the reality of being isolated and locked in with their abusers, and are unable to speak up.
Carling Black Label launched the #NoExcuse campaign in 2017, and it’s been running ever since. When the lockdown was announced, the campaign was expanded, providing a new platform for victims to speak up without making a sound. By sending the word “BRAVE” to 0800 150 150 on WhatsApp, victims will be connected to someone who can offer them the assistance they need.
Save Your Spot with Stella
Restaurants and bars have also been hit hard by COVID-19 and the lockdown. To help soften the blow, Stella Artois created a platform for South Africans to buy a voucher for their favourite restaurant or bar. The money from these vouchers goes directly to the establishments, and Stella Artois has committed to adding an additional 50% of the value of the voucher.
The vouchers can be redeemed as soon as the lockdown is lifted, meaning patrons will be able to enjoy 150% of the value they paid for, while supporting businesses and helping to keep employees paid.
Castle Lager – support runs in our DNA
As the supporter of three of South Africa’s biggest sports teams, Castle Lager is no stranger to offering real support. We’ve redirected our marketing budget to the Solidarity Fund in support of a new team – the people working tirelessly to save lives and keep South Africa going. To date, we’ve donated R7 million to the Solidarity Fund. We’re in this together, and we’ll make it through together.
#CastleLiteUnlocks
On 15 April, we showcased the first ever livestreamed #CastleLiteUnlocks event, featuring Nasty C, Mozzlie, and The Kiffness. For every view, Castle Lite donated R1 to the Solidarity Fund in an effort to offer help and support to the country we call home.
It all starts at home
We’re working hard to ensure our own employees are kept as safe as possible. When SAB staff return to work, they’ll be doing so under conditions that keep our people and our facilities virus-free.
- Temperature checks on arrival.
- PPE must be worn at all times.
- Sanitiser will be placed at all entrances and pause points.
- New, rigorous sanitation procedures will be put in place, and must be adhered to.
- Social distancing is to be maintained throughout the facility – including lifts, turnstiles, and seating arrangements.
- Amenities will either be closed, or will operate under strict Standard Operating Procedures.
- PPE must be worn when using staff transport.
- In the event of a confirmed case, the facility will be evacuated and fogged.
- There will be a COVID-19 compliance officer at all sites.
We’re in this together. We’ve got this.