Taverns of the future launch in Phiri
The purpose of the event was to introduce the taverns of the future in South Africa.
On March 01, Heineken launched an innovative campaign aimed at changing the landscape and atmosphere of taverns. The launched took place at The Spot 1818 in Phiri.
ALSO READ: Soweto businesswoman turns retrenchment into a success story
The purpose of the event was to introduce the taverns of the future in South Africa.
This means improving the consumer experience in taverns, by transforming it to a place that will have a positive impact on society.
Millicent Maroga, Heineken’s Corporate Affairs Director highlighted the need for taverns to be welcoming safe social spaces. “Our business would like to support a change from the negative perceptions around taverns, to developing modern Taverns of The Future.”
“In moving towards sophisticated gathering places, that are not centred around the need for excessive drinking, but rather that offer quality occasions, with good food, company, and entertainment,” Maroga explained.
Taverns now have the potential to not only grow their services by serving food and snacks, and offering entertainment and urban events venues.
But they can also create more inclusive social environments, through upgrades such as additional clean toilet facilities.
It is never too late to upgrade taverns and make them places which accommodate everyone in the community. Taverns of the future portray inclusivity and hospitality within.
ALSO READ: AI will help transform your business in 2023
“We have speared this initiative to make taverns a more conducive space. To make sure there are toilets for women, sit down meal occasion and free WIFI so that you are able to do your work while having your beverage,” said Burton Swain, General Manager for Business Development at Heineken.
Taverns of the Future is a project spearheaded by Heineken South Africa, in partnership with McCain Food Services, Primedia Retail, and Vodacom Financial Services.
Heineken has already enhanced and transformed over 120 taverns across metropoles and townships in South Africa to date, the Spot 1818 included.
Swain also explained that, “As Heineken we campaign for moderation.
“Where we have encouraged taverns owners to not sell alcohol before 12 noon and this opens a whole food and breakfast occasion.”
ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz’s eSprinter sets out to boost your business
This transformation of taverns involved building and construction, business and diversification support, as well as monetary investment.
“Many taverns are the social hubs and the heart of their townships. We remain focused on developing a sense of pride regarding township-bred businesses and are encouraging a sense of ownership, accountability, and responsibility amongst SMMEs in the hospitality sector, in often impoverished areas,” Maroga concluded.
