Carlton & United Breweries is keeping all of its breweries, including its craft breweries, fully operational while the COVID-19 crisis develops.
In a statement about the crisis, CUB CEO Peter Filipovic also called on all Australians to practice social distancing and follow government and medical advice.
“As the Federal and State governments’ response to COVID-19 evolves, I wanted to update Australians about how our business is responding,” Filipovic said.
“Firstly, our thoughts are with our valued partners at pubs, clubs and other hospitality venues. This is obviously a difficult time but we will get through this together.
“All our breweries remain fully operational – under strict Health and Safety Rules – with our outstanding brewery workers continuing to brew. This includes the Abbotsford Brewery in Melbourne, Yatala Brewery outside Brisbane and Hobart’s Cascade Brewery. It also includes all our craft breweries.
“As such, we are currently brewing enough beer to ensure we supply our retail customers and ensure Australians are still able to enjoy a beer in their home in these unprecedented times.
“Unfortunately, you can’t turn major breweries off and then quickly turn them back on. If breweries are included in a widespread shut down, we may not be able to get beer to the market for some months after re-opening.
“In the coming days and weeks, if you are enjoying a beer CUB asks that you please do so in accordance with the rules and advice of governments and their Chief Medical Officers. This includes practicing social distancing and staying at least 1.5 metres away from other people.”