Tennent’s extends help for Scottish pubs and restaurants hit by coronavirus

Lager giant Tennent’s has offered further support measures for Scotland’s embattled on-trade as pubs remain shuttered.

Tennent's is Scotland's biggest lager brand.

The beer wholesaler, part of Irish drinks firm C&C Group, said it was committing to either a full credit swap or an exchange of “old for new” on “un-broached” kegs of its beers and ciders when normal trade resumes.

It is also pledging to review individual accounts, to provide support for customers affected by reduced cash flow following the enforced closure of bars, pubs and restaurants, as well as setting up a dedicated team offering help to access government support.

Kenny Gray, Tennent’s managing director said: “The coronavirus crisis is undoubtedly the most challenging time in the sector’s history. Our key priority is to protect the welfare of our people, customers, suppliers, business partners and community.

“We welcome the range of initiatives put in place by government to support businesses together with the clarification that off-licences will continue to trade and also that breweries and associated distribution depots can remain operational.

“We are carrying out stringent audits to constantly monitor and ensure that all areas of our business adhere to the latest government guidance around safe social distancing and compliance with all other health and safety requirements.

“Prior to the government closure of bars, pubs and restaurants, we’d already postponed a planned price increase on our beers and ciders and committed to a three-month capital and interest holiday on loan repayments.

“We have initiated further measures following the announcement that hospitality outlets must close. Given closure of the on trade and impact on cash flow, our account managers are reviewing each customer’s account on an individual basis to work with them on how we can support during this period.”