Diageo has partnered with TheFork to offer its booking platform to eligible venues for free until December 31, 2020.
The initiative is part of Diageo’s $1.2million ‘Welcome Back’ support package for the Australian hospitality industry.
TheFork platform can provide bars with an easy-to-use reservation management system, along with a network of engaged customers.
Diageo said the new partnership will revolutionise the way bar bookings are generated and managed – offering customers fast access to venue availability and promotions in their local area.
The technology allows venues to adhere to current social distancing rules, providing much needed support to bars looking to maximise awareness, bookings, and sales during this time.
The booking system will be supported by marketing and PR from Diageo and TheFork to drive widespread awareness for bar re-openings.
Chris Shaw, Diageo Australia Commercial Director, said: “This has been a challenging time for all of us but our pubs, bars, restaurants and hospitality venues, many of them small businesses that employ thousands across the country, have been hit particularly hard hit over the last few months. As we start to see some light at the end of the tunnel and our on-premise partners slowly re-open, Diageo Australia is backing them when they need it most.”
“This multifaceted support package includes trade deals, bonus stock, free access to a bar booking platform, and PR and marketing amplification for venues that will equates to Diageo shouting them 130,000 standard drinks.”
“This means a $1.2 million boost into our participating on-premise partners offers much needed support as they start to get back on their feet and welcome the return of patrons to their favourite venues.”
Gary Burrows, Country Manager TheFork Australia added: “We’re thrilled to work with Diageo to provide access to our platform to bars and pubs across the country. It’s a critical time for the hospitality industry as venues start to rebuild and reopen. This initiative will be a valuable tool to ensure the Australian bar industry has the support they need to thrive, from managing reservations safely to encouraging patrons to pull up a seat at the bar.”
The initiative will be available to 1000 hospitality businesses nationwide from Thursday. The partnership gives venues full access to the software until December 31 (value $69.99 per month), with no booking fees for three months, no lock in contract and technical support from TheFork to help onboard and implement software systems.
Venues interested in registering should contact their local Diageo representative.
