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- Many of the country’s liquor brand owners promise to do things differently this year.
- Actors in the alcohol industry will distance themselves from activities that could attract crowds that violate Covid-19 regulations.
- Industry concern arises as a second wave of infections begins to take hold in South Africa.
South Africa’s alcohol industry says that in support of the government’s efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19, it has decided to withdraw brand support for festive season events.
“The industry has therefore decided to withdraw support or associate its brands with naming rights for major entertainment events for which an event license is required,” it said in a statement this week.
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The statement was issued by FTI Consulting on behalf of, among others, the South African Liquor Brand Owners Association (SALBA) and Liquor Merchant Formations, a coalition of liquor merchants in South Africa comprising the National Council of Merchants of Liquors and the South African Liquor Dealers Association. .
The industry said its members would also not associate with activities that had the potential to attract crowds that exceed 50% capacity regulations.
The industry has asked consumers, customers, and event organizers to avoid meetings that do not meet Covid-19 health and safety standards; mainly with masks and social distancing.
SALBA President Sibani Mngadi, who represents the industry, urged people to download the Covid-19 Alert SA mobile app and make use of the hotline to report any violations.
“The summer season is a time for social gatherings, celebrations, and outreach events, which can be wide-spread events and carry a high risk of virus transmission.
“As a nation, we simply cannot afford this. Let us work together to limit the negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption and ensure a safe and responsible environment for all,” Mngadi said.
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