As the For the Love of Your Local campaign surpasses its original $1 million target, CUB today announced the doubling of the target to $2 million.
In additional support to publicans struggling with cash flow, it is sending out 2000 barrels of beer for free to pubs across the country, shouting pubs up to 100,000 litres of beer.
CEO Peter Filipovic outlined the tough circumstances that most pubs across the country are currently facing, and urged the public to get behind the campaign in support of their local pub.
“The ongoing restrictions will continue to significantly limit trade and, for some venues, re-opening will have to wait until restrictions are further lifted. Those that do re-open will have reduced numbers.”
“Australian 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 and get free beer in the process.
Filipovic also called on pubs that hadn’t taken advantage of the campaign to sign up.
“We’ve had 2,000 pubs and clubs join already and, if you’re a venue that needs help, I’d urge you to sign-up too.”
A fleet of Carlton Draught and VB trucks – dubbed the Dig Deep Rigs – is also hitting the road this week to help garner revenue for Victorian and Sydney pubs, selling takeaway tap beer in glass bottles known as “Growlers” from pub carparks.
Many hoteliers struggling with the shutdown have been propped up in part by generous supplier support, such as the initiatives from CUB.
Annie Hateley, operator of Coburg’s Drums Hotel, lauded the efforts of CUB to assist its pub partners.
“With the bar and bistro being closed for nine weeks, our food and beverage revenue is down by about 90 per cent. The support of Government and key suppliers such as CUB has been really important to our financial viability.
“It’s been tough for the entire pub industry and it’s still a long road ahead for many operators. So, CUB raising $2 million for our industry is a real lifeline for many venues.
“Pubs are the heart of many Australian communities. Patrons are supporting them through For Love of Your Local, which speaks volumes for the appreciation patrons have for their local hotel.”
For the Love of Your Local has currently raised $1.086 million.