At a time when Irish pubs are going through a difficult period caused by COVID-19 and prolonged confinement, the Guinness group has decided to support establishments in difficulty by proposing a rescue plan of 14 million euros. The goal? Saving Irish pubs from bankruptcy and gradually reviving the Irish economy.
It has to be said that this confinement of more than 3 months had devastating repercussions on certain Irish pubs. Particularly in the small town of Dalkey, where the town’s historic establishment, founded in 1745, had to close its doors for good following the COVID-19 crisis. The same applies to another Dublin establishment: Bewley’s Oriental Cafe also had to close down, as it could no longer cope with the costs and the lack of business.
A recent report warned that almost 50% of Irish pubs may not recover from the crisis. This alarming study prompted the Diageo group (which owns Guinness) to launch a national plan.
The group has set up a new support program called “Raising The Bar”. It should enable Irish pubs and bars to receive financial support when they reopen.
Announcing the support program, Diageo CEO Ivan Menezes called on governments around the world to help the sector survive.
Pubs and bars are at the heart of every community,” he declared. We call on governments around the world to provide long-term rescue programs. Irish pubs play a vital role in bringing people together to socialize and party, something we’ve missed during this terrible crisis. We need to support and maintain the hundreds of millions of jobs in the sector.
Irish pubs wishing to benefit from the program can register via the “My Diageo” website. Each request will be studied carefully, and personalized support will be offered.
This is very good news, and should help to kick-start the machine and limit the damage.
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