- Many of the country's liquor brand owners are promising to do things differently this year.
- The alcohol industry players will distance themselves from activities which could draw crowds which break the Covid-19 regulations.
- The industry's concern comes as a second wave of infections starts to take hold in South Africa.
The South African alcohol industry says, 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 sector has, therefore, decided to withdraw support for or associating its brands with naming rights for major entertainment events for which an events licence is required," it said in a statement this week.
The statement was issued by FTI Consulting on behalf of, among others, the South African Liquor Brand owners Association (SALBA) and Liquor Traders Formations, a coalition of liquor traders in South Africa comprising the National Liquor Traders Council and Liquor Traders Association of South Africa.
The industry said its members would also not associate themselves with activities which had the potential of attracting crowds that exceeded the regulations of 50% capacity.
The industry has called on consumers, customers and event organisers to avoid gatherings that did not conform to Covid-19 health and safety regulations; mainly wearing masks and social distancing.
The chairperson of SALBA, 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 attending events, which can be super-spreader events and carry a huge risk of transmission of the virus.
"As a nation, we simply cannot afford this. Let's 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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