US distillers plea for economic relief

Trade bodies in the US are urging distillers to write to their members of Congress and ask for “relief ASAP” to support spirits producers during the covid-19 pandemic.

US trade bodies urge support for distillers during pandemic

The Distilled Spirits Council of the US (Discus), the American Craft Spirits Association, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association and the New York State Distillers Guild have collectively urged producers to encourage the US Senate to include US distillers in its covid-19 economic relief package.

A statement from the groups said: “Across the nation, America’s distillers are stepping up to produce hand sanitiser and donating it to the general public, first responders, and health care workers to help fight the covid-19 pandemic.

“In the interest of public health and safety, distilleries across the nation have closed tasting rooms, suspended tours, and cancelled large events to limit exposure to covid-19. As a result, distillers have been forced to make difficult decisions, including, in some cases, shutting down production and laying off staff. As a result, many distilleries may not be able to survive during this crisis.

“Distillers employ 1.6 million people across the country and generate US$180 billion in economic activity for the United States. How can you help?

“Tell Congress to provide economic relief to distillers and the hospitality sector now.”