Covid-19 Support for Breweries

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SIBA

Scottish Government announces 1.8 million package of support ring-fenced for breweries.  

James Calder Chief Executive of SIBA said:

“Small brewers in Scotland will today be raising a glass to news of a £1.8m package of targeted support specifically for breweries. SIBA have been working directly with the Scottish Government to develop specific funding for small brewers in Scotland.

Across the UK Small independent brewers have not received the same level of support as the broader hospitality sector during covid, despite losing around 80% of sales due to the closure of pubs. It is important that the Scottish Government now get this funding out to those who need it as quickly and simply as possible. Small breweries are running on empty and face lacklustre Christmas sales ahead – come January many  will face closure without this promised support.” 

CAMRA Scotland Director Joe Crawford said:

“Giving pubs an extra £2-£3K grant in January is welcome news, as is a specific allocation of £1.8 million to help breweries. But as the restrictions in all tiers continue to have a devastating impact on pubs and breweries at what would normally be their busiest time of year, and our locals aren’t out the woods yet.

“CAMRA is continuing to call on the Scottish Government to commit to a long-term financial support package to protect our local pubs and breweries, recognising that pubs matter and are a force for good in our communities. We would also like ministers to provide concrete evidence that banning the responsible consumption of alcohol in COVID-secure pubs is an effective measure to stop transmission. Without this evidence, the Government should re-think their draconian restrictions on pubs.”

Author
Scott Wilson
Last modified
Sat, 12 Dec 2020