Greggs Makes A U-Turn On Plans To Reopen Its Stores

Earlier this week, bakery chain Greggs announced it would be reopening 20 of its stores within the Newcastle area on a trial basis.

But now, it seems the chain has taken a complete u-turn, announcing that actually the trial will take place behind closed doors, without members of the public. Sob.

It seems the change of decision could be down customer reaction and just how many Greggs fans may descend on the bakeries once the trial begins.

A Greggs spokesperson explained: "Due to significant interest in our 20-shop trial, and the risk that excessive numbers of customers may plan to visit Greggs, we will now initially operate these trials behind closed doors in order to effectively test our new operational safety measures.

"We will continue to review this and will invite walk-in customers into our shops only when we can be confident of doing so in the controlled manner we intended."

Greggs/Instagram)

If the trial is successful, Greggs had planned to open around 700 of its 2,050 stores from 8th June with the aim of all its bakeries welcoming customers again by 1st July.

However, this of course could change to fit with government guidelines and announcements.

In a similar manner, McDonald's reopened a branch this week - but only in a trial capacity and not for customers.

Paul Pomroy, McDonald's UK and Ireland chief executive said: "Recently, we began working through a potential and limited reopening. We have been listening to our employees and customers as well as engaging with government and trade bodies to help ensure we do this responsibly, when the time is right.

"[...] This week we are carrying out some operational tests to explore what our reopening might look like; the restaurant where these tests take place will remain closed to the public. These tests will include exploring social distancing measures for our crew, PPE options and opening in a limited capacity."

PA)

Meanwhile, KFC has reopened 20 restaurants for takeaway and delivery while Nando's has opened six restaurants for delivery. They are four in London and two in Manchester.

Burger King has also followed suit, gradually reopening a small number of its branches, offering a limited menu for delivery only.

Looks like we may have to wait a little longer for our Steak Bake fix...

Topics: Greggs, Life News, Tasty Food, News, Coronavirus, Food And Drink

Lucy Devine

Lucy is a journalist working for Tyla. After graduating with a master's degree in journalism, she has worked in both print and online and is particularly interested in fashion, food, health and women's issues. Northerner, coffee addict, says hun a lot. Get in touch at [email protected].

@lucedevine