ZAMBIA – Zambian Breweries Plc, a subsidiary of AB InBev has ventured into use of digital technology and e-commerce platforms as part of its distribution channels to encourage customers to enjoy their products responsibly at home amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

To this end, the country’s largest brewing company has partnered with Tigmoo and AfriDelivery to facilitate delivery of its products to the doorsteps of its customers.

“It’s not something that we have been doing a lot in the past; we just started. Together with our partners, we’re trying to encourage people that if you don’t want to go out, but you still want to have our products at home, you can place your order online,” said Zambian Breweries Country Director Jose Moran.

“You can still enjoy our brands; you can still have fun; but please do it at home and by yourself. You don’t need to go out,” he stressed.

Mr Moran noted that the Zambian Breweries e-commerce distribution channel was still in infancy but hoped it would soon grow to greater heights with time.

In a press-release, the company indicated that it has not yet gotten great volumes through the e-commerce distribution line, but believes it is the future delivery system for the industry.

Mr Moran observed that customers were slowly adapting to the new normal and embracing home delivery of alcohol products.

“The consumer is adapting during this pandemic; the consumer has changed from going out and having a drink to enjoying more responsibly at home,” he noted.

SBL deepens knowledge on responsible drinking using e-learning tool

In other related news, Serengeti Breweries Limited, the Tanzania operating unit of East African Breweries Ltd (EABL) has launched a new DRINKiQ e-learning tool to disseminate information on responsible drinking.

According to reports by Daily News Tz, the platform will provide consumers with the information they need to make positive decisions about drinking responsibly and tackling myths about drinking alcohol.

The new mobile-friendly online tool is the first of its kind in the alcohol industry, using interactive learning and tests to give people information about the content of their drinks, how alcohol is made and different ways it can impact their bodies.

Also, it will show them how to keep track of their alcohol intake, how to pour a standard measure of spirits, wine or beer and the truth about common myths concerning alcohol.

“DRINKiQ e-learning is the next stage in SBL’s commitment to helping our consumers make informed choices about drinking.”

SBL Corporate Relations Director – John Wanyancha

SBL Corporate Relations Director John Wanyancha said the e-learning strategy was part of a ‘Drink Positive’ campaign, a global initiative and a brainchild of Diageo, the parent company of EABL.

The initiative is aimed at sensitising the people who chose to drink to make positive and responsible choices about alcohol.

“DRINKiQ e-learning is the next stage in SBL’s commitment to helping our consumers make informed choices about drinking.

“We have been providing face-to-face DRINKiQ training to groups across the country in the last few years, but our approach will now change due to the situation we are facing,” said Mr Wanyancha, referring to the Covid-19 pandemic that had disrupted businesses in many ways across the world.

He added, “SBL will continue using its marketing and communication expertise to help raise public awareness about responsible drinking to make a significant and sustainable impact on society.”

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