Bus drivers latest to get hand gel from Bacardi Distillery

Perthshire bus drivers have become the latest key workers to receive donations of hand sanitiser from a local distillery.

The Bacardi Distillery in Aberfeldy has been making the hand gel during global efforts to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Alongside four other Bacardi sites in Scotland, the team has produced more than 8,500 litres of hand sanitiser over the past month.

The supplies have been distributed to frontline workers such as paramedics, firefighters, care home staff, and NHS staff.

Now bus drivers in Perth and Blairgowrie have become the latest recipients.

Operations director at Stagecoach East Scotland, David Frenz, said: “We’re really thankful for the support Bacardi have shown us.

“Since the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreak we have been providing our staff with hand sanitiser, however this additional support will keep our staff protected as they continue to provide vital services for key workers.”

Stagecoach buses have continued to operate during the coronavirus pandemic but have done so to a reduced timetable.

The company says it has provided travel options for key workers making essential journeys during the lockdown, in line with travel advice from the government.

The Aberfeldy distillery has joined forces with 14 other Bacardi production sites across the world to produce more than 1.5 million litres of hand sanitiser for distribution to local communities in recent weeks.

UK operations director for Bacardi, Niall Mitchell said: “As a family-owned company, it’s in the Bacardi DNA to do all we can to help our local communities in times of need.

“We’re incredibly humbled by the tireless efforts of frontline workers across Scotland and are proud to be doing our bit to help, not just globally but right here on the doorstep of our whisky distilleries.

“By donating hand sanitiser to the people who need it most, from bus drivers to care workers, our goal is to make a real difference in the fight against Covid-19.”

David Frenz of Stagecoach has welcomed the donation of hand gel from the Bacardi Distillery.