Pernod Ricard has announced an initiative pledging thousands of meals to hospitality workers impacted by COVID-19. The aim of Meals for Mates is to provide a meal to impacted hospitality works while helping keep takeaway and delivery industry open.
Pernod Ricard Winemakers director Eric Thomson said its restaurants and bar partner venues were the “lifeblood of the industry”.
“They have given us so much, now let’s help them. We want to encourage the community, where possible, to continue supporting their local hospitality businesses so as many as possible can remain open,” he said.
Hospitality workers impacted by COVID-19 can access a $25 voucher by emailing mealsformates@pernod-ricard.com. They will need to provide their RSA card or other proof of working in the hospitality industry.
Vouchers to the value of $100,000 (4000 vouchers) will be available.
The project has the support of some of Sydney’s most iconic underground haunts: Mary’s, Frankie’s Pizza and Shady Pines.
Mary’s Group co-founder Jake Smyth said Meals for Mates will help small businesses continue to employ as many staff as possible and keep them afloat.
“The idea of sharing meals to support the hospitality industry is beautiful in both its simplicity, as well as its sentiment. As hospo workers, we create and facilitate the sharing of meals for a living. To have Pernod Ricard reflect this back at us in such a devastating time goes beyond support. It touches the core of who we are,” Smyth said.
Deliveroo is also involved, with spokesperson Matt Tovey encouraging everyone to continue supporting small businesses.
