Mzansi’s alcohol industry have pledged their commitment to support president Cyril Ramaphosa’s goals in rebuilding the economy. The industry is working across the value chain to enhance their contribution towards the revival of the economy.
The chief executive of the South African Liquor Brandowners Association (SALBA), Kurt Moore, said the alcohol industry acknowledges the challenges faced by government.
Its efforts to stem the covid-19 pandemic and prevent the possibility of a second wave of infections do not go unnoticed, said Moore. “We welcome the president’s stated goal to save lives and protect livelihoods through focusing on restoring, recovering and rebuilding the economy.”
Ramaphosa’s recent announcement of alcohol sales restrictions being lifted comes as a welcome relief to their industry, Moore added. This, especially considering that the industry was still recovering from two waves of bans on formal sales of alcohol during the lockdown.
Beer industry to support economic growth plan
CEO of the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), Patricia Pillay, also re-committed their support to the president’s rapid economic growth plan.
“We are also going to continue to work with social partners in curbing the harmful use of alcohol. We encourage all consumers to drink in moderation and also explore no and low alcohol products that have been introduced into the market.”
Beer is the biggest category of South African alcohol and a major contributor to the country’s economy. The South African alcohol industry includes, but is not limited to the National Liquor Traders Council, South African Liquor Brandowners Association (SALBA), the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA), Vinpro, the National Liquor Traders Council, retailers and manufacturers.
Wine industry essential to economic recovery
Rico Basson, the managing director of Vinpro, said the survival of the wine industry and wine tourism is essential for economic recovery. This includes approximately 290 000 employment opportunities, but also the cultural heritage it brings to brand South Africa.
“Wine sales at cellar door make up a large portion of their revenue and the resumption of normal trade, especially now the tourism season is approaching, is critical.”
The convener of the Coalition of Liquor Traders, Lucky Ntimane, represents about 34 000 tavern owners in Mzansi. He said, “We have been vocal in condemning irresponsible behaviour to prevent a second wave of infections. Our network welcomes the lifting of trading restrictions which will substantially ease the heavy economic stress the sector has been under.”
- The alcohol industry urged consumers to call the Consumer Goods Council hotline on 0800 014 856 to report any violation of the sales regulations.
