Distell donates alcohol for hand sanitiser production

South African drinks group Distell has pledged 100,000 litres of alcohol for the production of hand sanitiser, which will be given to vulnerable communities across the country.

Distell will also offer hand sanitiser to its employees across the world

Distell, the producer of Amarula liqueur and Bunnahabhain Scotch whisky, has begun hand sanitiser production at its facilities to help limit the spread of coronavirus.

The firm will work closely with the local government to identify the vulnerable communities, and support the roll out of the disinfectant.

Richard Rushton, Distell Group CEO, said: “Our priority at Distell – right now and always – is the safety and wellbeing of our employees, our stakeholders and society at large.

“We are determined to support our government in its bid to halt the current rapid spread of covid-19 and in the absence of a vaccine, good hygiene remains one of the most effective options to do so.

“We fully understand that our position as a leading player in the alcoholic beverages industry comes with a societal obligation. We want communities to benefit from our presence and we are determined to rise to the challenge.”

The hand sanitisers will also be available to Distell’s employees across the world.

In addition, Distell has cancelled its events and closed all its experiential and product tasting facilities until further notice. The group is also ensuring that all employees who are not involved in alcohol production work from home.

Distell is among a large number of spirits producers meeting demand for hand sanitiser production, including Bacardi, Diageo, and Pernod Ricard.