A broad national survey this month brings welcome news to hospitality businesses, finding a major increase in patron confidence about returning to venues.
Two thirds of Australians (67pc) reported they think about the consequences of COVID-19 if they go to a pub, but 82 per cent feel confident about returning to their local pub, club or bar. This compares with only 58 per cent in August 2020.
The survey found only one in three Aussies (36pc) are going to the pub as often as they did before the pandemic, and a third (34pc) say if COVID-safe supplies were not readily available they would either leave or ask staff.
The independent market research underlines how challenging the current environment continues to be for businesses. It was conducted for Bundaberg Rum’s $11.5m Raising the Bar initiative, which has so far provided more than 1,300 venues with free COVID-safe supplies*.
Diageo Australia, parent company to Bundaberg Rum, says it made the investment into the Raising the Bar support as it knew hospitality venues would need a hand to recover, approaching a year of shutdowns and restricted trading.
“Our pubs and clubs have been really doing it tough throughout the pandemic,” notes Angus McPherson, MD of Diageo Australia.
“We are determined to support them and ensure their loyal patrons feel confident that they can return to their local and socialise as safely as possible.
“Any licenced venue can apply for this support and we really encourage all hospitality venues to get involved because we want to help pubs, bars and clubs across the country emerge stronger out of this pandemic.”
Venues do not need to be a client of Diageo to apply. Further details and applications HERE.
*COVID-safe supplies: hand sanitiser and dispenser stations, masks, gloves, floor demarcations (stickers) and digital thermometers.
