Burger King and Starbucks to reopen first branches
By Sarah Wood | 12th May 2020
Branches of Burger King and Starbucks will reopen this week as the UK starts to slowly ease out of lockdown.
The two brands, which have branches across the county, are offering only takeaway and drive-through options, as reported by the Guardian. It's not yet clear whether any of the reopened branches will be in Gloucestershire.
These are the first tentative steps by large chains towards a full reopening of restaurants and cafes. Government guidelines published on Monday said full reopening could be allowed from July, but only if the virus appears to be under control.
Starbucks is set to open 150 branches on Thursday, with customers able to buy coffee to take away or for delivery, while Burger King will open a further 35 branches for drive through collection or delivery.
Contactless payments, plastic screens and a ban on reusable cups are among the measures being put in place by food retailers to protect customers and staff.
Starbucks said that since it closed its doors in March it had been testing and refining its safety procedures, learning from China and the US, where the majority of its branches are now open. Customers will be encouraged to order online in advance and given staggered times to collect their orders. Customers waiting to collect an order should wait in a designated area where there is space for social distancing, or only allowed into shops one at a time.
In a message to its employees, Starbucks said its aim was to be fully open by the end of June, but that it will take its time to adapt along the way.
Burger King plans to reopen a further 72 branches next Monday and 40 a week after that, for delivery or drive-through only.
Pret a Manger is already offering a delivery and takeaway service from more than 100 outlets, including its Cheltenham branch.
McDonald's plans to reopen 15 sites in the South East from tomorrow (13th May). The company has reduced its menu, to make distancing easier in its kitchens.
Image credit: Google Maps
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