Throughout COVID-19 the Australian pork industry has been working to support hospitality workers via Hospo4Hopso, but as restaurants reopen, the initiative is not ending, it’s pivoting.

The Australian pork industry launched Hospo4Hospo in March, partnering with restaurants around the country to offer hospitality workers free pork meals, a smile and socially distanced chat, but from today, the initiative will provide pork to venues as they reopen.

Australian Pork Limited (APL) CEO, Margo Andrae, said while COVID-19 restrictions were easing, the foodservice sector has had a tough few months and recovery will take time.

“Venues have been pleased to welcome back diners as restrictions ease, state by state, but while this is welcome news for hungry Aussies who had missed dining out, the reality is still challenging for many outlets and their staff,” Ms Andrae said.

“The Australian pork industry initiated Hospo4Hospo in March to give back to an industry that has supported us through the good times and bad and it was well received. However, as staff are starting to get back to work, it’s now important to support venues as they get back up and running.

“Through our foodservice programmes, we’ll be working with restaurants around the country and providing great tasting, versatile Australian pork, for them to serve to their diners.”

This secures the future of Hospo4Hospo for a further 10 weeks, with venues supported to add pork cuts to their menus, including ribs and bellies.

“This initiative is a win-win in a difficult time,” Ms Andrae said.

“For the restaurants, it’s free product which helps their bottom line as they continue to respond to governments’ changing restrictions and a very different market.

“For the Australian pork industry, foodservice represents about 25% of sales and this initiative supports restaurants as they reopen and helps ensure Australian pork is on menus.”

The Australian pork industry employs 35,000 people and supply continued throughout the COVID-19 disruption. When foodservice restrictions were enacted, the supply chain was disrupted and farmgate prices weakened, but this has shown signs of stabilising. Australian Pork, through its foodservice programmes, has provided resources, support and advice to industry friends and partners throughout the COVID-19 period. This support will continue as the industry recovers.

To find out more, visit www.australianpork.com.au or for recipe inspiration, visit www.pork.com.au