Beam Suntory, a global leader in premium spirits, and parent company Suntory Holdings, have promised $600,000 (approximately Rs 44,184,000) to support Covid-19 relief in India, aimed on increasing access to medical care in the worst-hit areas, and assisting on-trade partners that have been affected by the surge in the cases of coronavirus disease.
“Giving back to society is one of Suntory Group’s most cherished and fundamental values,” stated Tak Niinami, CEO of Suntory Holdings. “We are proud to stand with Beam Suntory and our team members in India to support urgent public health needs and hard-hit communities as India confronts the alarming surge in coronavirus cases.”
Donations will offer support to-
• British Asian Trust, which works to deliver oxygen concentrators to hospitals as quickly as possible, working with local partners to identify the areas of greatest need
• Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), India’s largest business chamber which is carrying on extensive relief operations across the nation with several government agencies and local authorities in the areas impacted by the 2nd wave of COVID-19
• Through Beam Suntory’s collaboration with the National Restaurant Association of India, supporting recovery attempts in the food and beverage industry, as well as professional training and vaccination cover where required by staff of the association members
• Government-led relief efforts to alleviate the scarcity of hospital equipment in India’s most adversely affected states.
“The pandemic has been a tragedy globally, but the current situation in India has hit close to home for us, as it has impacted many of our team members, their families, and communities,” informed Albert Baladi, president & CEO of Beam Suntory. “Contributing to vibrant and equitable communities is a pillar of our Proof Positive sustainability strategy, and we are committed to helping support these hard-hit communities in India.”
The company runs a rapidly-growing commercial business in India, having its head office in Gurgaon, as well as bottling facilities in Behror and Goa, and has over 300 full-time employees across the nation.
“This is a very difficult time for India, and I know I speak on behalf of my entire team when I say that the support we are receiving from Beam Suntory and Suntory leadership has been an inspiration,” declared Neeraj Kumar, Beam Suntory’s MD of India.