South African Breweries celebrates farmers at 130th anniversary event

South African Breweries recently celebrated its 130-year anniversary by thanking farmers for their continued hard work in producing high-quality barley for its beer.

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To mark its 130th anniversary, South African Breweries (SAB) hosted a 'Cheers to Farmers' event on 17 September in Taung, North West, recognising the role of local farmers in powering the country's beer value chain.

According to SAB, South Africa's beer industry has had a significant impact on the country's farming economy, contributing over R2,2 billion to the agricultural GDP and supporting more than 38 000 jobs nationwide.

The company had invested more than R650 million in agricultural development in the country, “ensuring that beer brewed in South Africa is made from natural, locally sourced ingredients while supporting inclusive growth by empowering communities across the country”, it said in a press release.

SUPPORTING FARMERS AND COMMUNITIES

Speaking at the event, Kyle Day, vice-president of procurement and sustainability for Africa at AB InBev, emphasised the commitment SAB had made to empowering local communities.

He added that 95% of the raw materials the company purchased, particularly barley, came from South African farmers.