By Scott Wright
ONE of Scotland’s biggest Scotch whisky distillers has revealed plans to support a key charity for members of the licensed trade who are enduring hardship because of coronavirus.
The East Kilbride operation of Distell International, formerly known as Burn Stewart Distillers, said it will donate 10 per cent of online product sales from the Tobermory, Bunnahabhain and Deanston distilleries to The Ben (The Scottish Licensed Trade Benevolent Society) to support workers affected by Covid-19.
It comes as The Ben reports unprecedented demand for its services in light of the outbreak.
Thousands of jobs have been lost across the hospitality and tourism sectors as pubs, bars, hotels and restaurants have closed under social distancing measures to curb the spread of the virus. The Ben, which has been supporting licensed trade workers since 1864, is offering social, emotional, and financial support to people affected.
Fraser Thornton, managing director of Distell International, said: “The industry is facing one of the most challenging periods in its history and there are many individuals in our communities who have been severely impacted by the recent lockdown. The Ben is playing a fantastic role in providing direct assistance when it is needed most, whether that’s financially, emotionally, or socially. Together with their support, we can overcome this.”
As well as pledging to donate 10 per cent of product sales, the three distilleries are encouraging staff and consumers to pledge their own support to The Ben via its JustGiving page.
In partnership with Community Action for Deanston and Deanston Support Group, employees at Deanston Distillery, near Stirling, have been providing soup from its café to vulnerable groups and school children. The distilleries have also launched online activity to help keep consumers entertained during lockdown.
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