Suntory supports Tonga after volcanic eruption

Following a volcanic eruption and tsunami, Suntory Holdings has donated more than US$100,000 to support relief efforts in Tonga.

The underwater Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano erupted on 15 January, causing a tsunami with waves up to 15m high on some islands.

Suntory Holdings said it was compelled to help given its ‘special ties’ with Tonga through rugby.

Kiyonori Tanaka, general manager of the Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath rugby team, said: “On behalf of the entire Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath team, I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those that have been affected by the recent volcanic eruption.

“We stand close with the government and people of Tonga, especially as we have many current and former team members with roots in the country.

“We will continue supporting in various ways possible and sincerely hope that the country will recover as early as possible.”

Suntory Holdings has donated approximately US$87,700 to disaster relief and recovery efforts following the natural disasters.

An additional NZ$20,000 (US$13,300) was also donated by Frucor Suntory, a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings that operates across Australia and New Zealand. This donation was given partly in cash, with NZ$10,000 (US$6,570) given to the New Zealand Red Cross, and 25 pallets (equal to more than 1,700 cases of bottled water, worth NZ$10,000) sent to local Tongan communities.

In the February 2022 issue of The Spirits Business magazine, out now, we explore how Bourbon producers in Kentucky rallied together after tornadoes tore through the region.