CAMRA to work with pubs to help keep them afloat in coronavirus outbreak

Brewing association CAMRA is to work with pubs to help them launch new online shops, offer beer or cider takeaways and provide gift vouchers for locals in a bid to keep the industry afloat during the coronavirus outbreak.

CAMRA is to help pubs hit by coronavirus.

CAMRA has partnered with the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) and Crowdfunder to create the #pullingtogether campaign to help pubs, clubs, breweries, taprooms and cider producers.

CAMRA’s National Chairman Nik Antona said: “These are unprecedented times in the brewing, cider and pub industry, and it is now that we all have to pull together to help keep the UK’s producers and pubs afloat.

“We want to connect people with pubs as well as beer and cider producers in their area so that they can purchase great beer or a hot meal locally, rather than relying on the supermarket. This could end up being a real lifeline for people who are unable to get a delivery slot and could help ease some of the stress and burden of self-isolating during these troubling times.”

He added: “Pubs and breweries need our help now more than ever - without a strong show of support from local communities, many are destined for permanent closure.”

CAMRA is also concerned about the impact of social isolation and distancing at a time when people need it most, and has also set up an online Facebook group for the public called Pulling Together for Pubs, Pints & People, where it hopes to host virtual pub quizzes, beer o’clock and other virtual events.

SIBA’s chief executive James Calder said: “This is the single biggest threat to the beer and pubs industry in a lifetime and we are doing everything we can to help pubs, independent breweries, and supplier companies weather the storm and come out the other side.”