Our local craft industry needs you
From large to small and everyone in between, it’s only a matter of time before we start seeing brewery closures. If you’re a beer fan, or just a fan of anything local and lekker, then this is devastating news. Our craft industry is young and it’s been a hard slog of many years to get it to where it was pre-lockdown. It’s an industry built by passionate brewers, many of whom have put their livelihoods on the line to make it a success. To see it all come crashing down due to factors beyond their control is heartbreaking.
Luckily, all is not lost. We South Africans are a crafty lot and breweries across the country are getting creative to survive. They’re just waiting for you to lend a hand. Here are a couple of ways that you can help out.
Get a selection online:
E-commerce is back and, while we wait for 1 June, take a wander through the selections available and have a box of beer delivered to your door as soon as restrictions are eased.
Best Craft Beer is Jozi-based, but they ship nationwide. They have a great selection of beers and if you’re Cape Town-based and looking to get your hands on a few Jozi beers, then this is your best bet.
As the name suggests, this online store focuses on brews from the KZN region. Order now and get a free KZN Brew Hop magazine.
3. Yuppiechef
Yuppiechef needs no introduction. Visit their online store for a great selection from the League of Beers.
Support a brewery directly:
We’ve all got a few favourite breweries, so why not support them now when they need it most?
The Kennel has been running an awesome auction series on Instagram giving away beer and music-related prizes. Brewer Paul Freysen has also turned into an overnight busking sensation with hits like Covid-19 (aka Jolene). You can support by ordering a Pavement Special mixed case or donating to their BackaBuddy fund.
ALSO READ: How to do happy hour at home – snacks included
Woodstock, Drifter and Stellenbosch breweries have joined forces to feed the hungry with their brewhouse-turned-soup-kitchen initiative. You can donate directly to the breweries to support this amazing scheme and while you’re there, you can order beers online for delivery as soon as it’s legal.
– Donate to Woodstock’s soup kitchen
– Order Stellies beers at wholesale prices
3. Darling Brew
Darling Brew is always innovating and for their latest trick, they’ve set up a drive-through beer pick-up. All you have to do is order at the taproom and send them a “Hello” on WhatsApp when you’re ready to collect outside. This service will be available when we hit lockdown Level 3.
These are just a few of the current brewery incentives that are running around the country. For a comprehensive list updated daily, visit Lucy Corne’s blog. Let’s keep the craft revolution alive!
NOW READ: Eat Out steps in to help feed the growing number of hungry tummies – and you can help
