Hive + Wellness has launched a specially marked “Drought and Bushfire Relief” Capilano Honey Pack, with 20 cents from every sale to go directly to supporting struggling beekeepers via Rural Aid charity’s “Hive Aid” campaign.
The new 340 gram packs are on sale in supermarkets and stores immediately, although the full roll-out will take several weeks.
Hive + Wellness, which sources honey from more than half of Australia’s 1500 professional beekeepers for its iconic Capilano product, said it hoped the New Year launch would begin a better year for honey bees and their keepers.
Chief Operating Officer Ben McKee said, “It is no secret that 2019 was an extremely difficult year for beekeepers across the country, particularly those affected by the worst of the drought and bushfires in NSW and Queensland. The situation is not one we can turn around easily, with drought conditions still prevailing across much of the typical beekeeping countryside, and some areas unlikely to recover for years. Bushfires, which are causing such devastation around the country, have a cruel impact on wildlife and that includes our vital honey bee population.”
He added, “I know that many Australians are concerned about what our farmers and beekeepers are experiencing. Our Drought and Bushfire Relief honey is a very practical way they can help, while also enjoying the taste of pure Australian honey.”
McKee added that 20 cents from every 340-gram classic honey pack would go to the cause, even if the packaging did not display the new Drought and Bushfire Relief label. He said, “It will take some time to get these special packs across our retailers, but the nation’s beekeepers need help now. We have therefore made the commitment in relation to every 340 gram Capilano classic pack sale from 1 January.”
The Drought and Bushfire Relief honey is part of a suite of initiatives Hive + Wellness is implementing in support of beekeepers, who have seen their bees suffer, honey production plummet, and incomes slide for many months. In December Hive + Wellness joined charity Rural Aid and industry body AHBIC to establish Hive Aid, a hardship fund accessible to beekeepers.
