Dobbies’ restaurants to reopen in the UK

Dobbies Garden Centres, is set to reopen its 68 restaurants across the UK this month (July 2020). In light of Government advice, the first restaurants to open will be in Northern Ireland (3 July), with England reopening next (4 July), followed by Wales (13 July) and Scotland (15 July). Scotland will open outdoor seating areas for takeaway from 6 July. The news comes after Dobbies reopened its stores across the UK in May and June, with strict social distancing measures in operation. Dobbies said the safety of team members and customers remains its number one priority, and a number of additional social distancing measures have been put in place. There will also be a dedicated Safety Champion in each restaurant who will be solely responsible for ensuring all measures are being followed. The Safety Champion will be on hand to answer any questions and ensure team members and customers feel safe at all times. In line with Government guidance, Tables and chairs have been laid out in the restaurants to ensure there is a safe distance between diners. Self-service coffee machines will not be in use, but baristas will be on hand to serve hot drinks. Dobbies said it will also be continuing with rigorous hygiene routines, with all trays and tables sanitised after use. Each restaurant has also taken additional steps when working with suppliers, with contact free and sanitised deliveries. Graeme Jenkins, CEO of Dobbies, said: “Following the successful re-opening of our garden centres from May, we are well-placed to restart our restaurant operations. Customers will be able to enjoy all of their Dobbies favourites again, including our bespoke blend coffee and famous scones. “The safety of our team members and customers remains Dobbies number one priority, which is why we have introduced the new role of Safety Champion. Not only do we want customers to feel safe, but we want them to have an enjoyable experience.” He added: “We look forward to welcoming customers back into our restaurants and would like to thank our team members and customers for following the safety measures in place.”