Heineken announces measures to tackle Corona virus crisis

Heineken has announced a raft of measures it has been implementing since the outbreak of Covid-19 to cushion and support employees and the communities in which it operates.

Jean-François van Boxmeer, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO:  “Our thoughts are with all those affected by Covid-19 and the people working tirelessly to care for them. In this unprecedented situation, at Heineken we have been following from the start of the outbreak three guiding principles: First, the health, safety and trust of our people is of paramount importance. Second, we do everything we can to safeguard the continuity of our business and appeal of our brands, which includes supporting the business continuity of our customers and suppliers. And, third, through our local initiatives, we offer our support to the communities who are most impacted by the pandemic.”

To guarantee health and safety of its employees, the company is instituting strict measures to ensure that those who work in production and distribution, adhere to strict hygiene and social distancing guidelines and are supported to do their jobs safely. In addition to provide security to its employees, Heineken has committed not to carry out structural layoffs until end of 2020 as a result of Covid-19.

To its clients, Heineken is scaling up initiatives in support of on-trade customers across markets in all regions.

The company has also committed to paying suppliers at agreed payment terms and will support its most vulnerable small and medium sized suppliers through early payments.

To reach its communities effectively, Heineken is introducing multiple local initiatives across its global operations in support of those who are at the front line of the Covid-19 fight among them donation of water and non-alcoholic beverages, production of hand sanitizers and financial contributions to front line medical facilities.

Heineken has also responded to the international appeal by donating €15 million in support of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) relief efforts for the most vulnerable people affected by Covid-19, particularly in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Jean-François van Boxmeer: “For over 100 years the Red Cross has worked tirelessly to save lives around the world. Now more than ever, we want to offer them our support in the work they do to help the most vulnerable beat Covid-19.”

www.theheinekencompany.com