The COVID-19 pandemic has had a colossal effect on businesses around the world. Many have had to alter the way they operate and put plans on hold, and some have even ceased trading completely.
In order for businesses to emerge from such turbulent times intact, they need to pay close attention to how they are perceived by customers and the general public, and those that do not consider their Public Relations will find it more difficult to weather the storm.
Proactive resilience
Beer company, BrewDog, has been praised throughout the pandemic for its on point response to the ever evolving situation, which has seen it implement innovative and creative PR campaigns, as well as coming up with ways it can help during the current crisis.
On 18th March, the company’s founder announced on social media that BrewDog’s distillery would not be brewing its signature beer, Punk IPA, for the foreseeable, and would instead make ‘BrewGel Punk hand sanitiser’ in a mission to help combat the nationwide shortage. The brand received an instantaneous positive media reaction, especially as it announced it would be supplying its sanitisers to hospitals and vulnerable people free of charge.
Tapping into emerging demand
By shifting its manufacturing to create hand sanitisers, BrewDog has shown its acute awareness of how, as a brand, it can help during this pandemic, as well as a willingness to move its focus away from sales and the production of its bestselling beer in order to help those in need.
Future promotion
BrewDog also recently announced that once lockdown is over and its bars can reopen, all customers are entitled to a free beer:
“Good beer has always brought people together. Through the best of times and the worst. Soon, beer is going to do that again. And when that day comes. When all of this is over. We are going to buy everyone a beer. Until then, stay home. Stay safe. And look after each other. We’ll see you on the other side.”
This is a clever move, encouraging customers back into BrewDog bars as soon as it is safe. Anyone can register for their free beer and there is no cut off for how many people can register.
The company also went on to launch the pre-sale of its limited edition beer titled “Barnard Castle Eye Test Hazy Durham IPA” last week, with all proceeds going towards funding its production of free sanitiser for the NHS and other health care charities.
Adding to its CSR efforts, BrewDog is a prime example of how brands can add value during times of struggle and uncertainty and, if executed well, PR can make people remember them for the right reasons.
Hats off and cheers, BrewDog!
