Diageo plc - DEO STOCK NEWS

More than 90% of independent venues in the U.S. face permanent closure due to COVID-19. In response, Crown Royal is launching a relief campaign in partnership with Main Street Alliance to support these cultural landmarks, which employ approximately 15.6 million people. The initiative includes a new version of the song "If You Want Me to Stay," featuring artists Ari Lennox and Anthony Ramos, where funds will be donated for every stream. This effort aims to help affected venues survive while promoting community support through music.

On September 1, 2020, Ketel One will launch its first ready-to-drink beverage, the Ketel One Botanical Vodka Spritz, featuring no carbs, no added sugar, and only 73 calories per serving. This innovative spritz includes 100% non-GMO grain and is available in three flavors: Peach & Orange Blossom, Cucumber & Mint, and Grapefruit & Rose. The introduction comes as ready-to-drink cocktails see a 100% increase in off-premise sales since 2019, aiming to meet the demand for convenient, lower-calorie options.

On August 24, 2020, Bulleit announced the launch of the Bulleit Frontier Fund with an initial commitment of $250,000 to support the North American hospitality industry affected by COVID-19. The fund will support organizations like The USBG National Charity Foundation and Southern Smoke Foundation. A new national creative campaign featuring bartenders will accompany this initiative. Additionally, Bulleit plans to implement programs like #BulleitBarSkills and the Frontier Bartender Labs to further support bartenders during this challenging time.

Baileys has launched a limited-edition Baileys Apple Pie Irish Cream Liqueur, encouraging early celebration of Friendsgiving. This new offering blends flavors of baked apple pie and vanilla ice cream, available for $24.99 nationwide. Baileys has partnered with Cocktail Courier and celebrity chef Zac Young to create a Friendsgiving Kit, which includes ingredients for a unique cocktail and an apple pie-inspired dessert. The kit aims to enhance the holiday experience, emphasizing togetherness even in virtual gatherings. The liqueur is on sale while supplies last, appealing to consumers looking for indulgent fall treats.

Guinness has announced a seven-year partnership with the University of Notre Dame, becoming the Official Beer for the university's Fighting Irish alumni and fans, numbering over 40 million. This partnership aims to create new traditions and includes former quarterback Joe Montana as the National Ambassador. Special edition Guinness Draught cans will be launched, promoting responsible drinking. The collaboration celebrates shared values and builds community connections, reinforcing the historical bond between the two Irish institutions.

Crown Royal announces the release of a reimagined version of Kane Brown's hit song "Homesick" to support American heroes. The initiative is part of the Crown Royal Purple Bag Project, aiming to pack one million care packages by year-end 2020. For every stream of "Homesick (Veterans Version)" released on August 5, 2020, a care package will be packed, and $1 will be donated to Minority Veterans of America, up to $100,000. This collaboration features veterans' vocals and underscores Crown Royal's commitment to supporting frontline workers and the minority veteran community.

Diageo has announced the launch of the world's first 100% plastic-free paper-based spirits bottle, made from sustainably sourced wood, debuting with Johnnie Walker in early 2021. This innovation is part of a new partnership with Pilot Lite, forming Pulpex Limited, a sustainable packaging technology company, aiming to revolutionize packaging in consumer goods. The bottle is fully recyclable and meets food-safe standards. The consortium, which includes major FMCG companies like Unilever and PepsiCo, is set to develop and release branded paper bottles in 2021, contributing to environmental sustainability goals.