Welcome to the latest instalment of News Bites, where we’re enjoying a cold pint inside a warm pub, finally!
Big events without masks are no riskier than shopping
It looks like it could be good news for nightclubs and other big venues, as preliminary data from the events research programme is showing that holding mass events without masks and social distancing can be as safe as going to the pub, restaurant or shopping. Let’s hope we will be dancing under those glitter balls come 21 June.
‘Let’s do London’ celebrates hospitality
Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan is launching a new campaign to support and celebrate the food scene in the capital. Part of the Mayor’s initiative will bring together famous chefs, hospitality venues and food lovers to share their favourite restaurants and bars that they’re excited to get back to.
Sales up 25% following reopening
Pub, bar and restaurant sales saw a spike of 25% compared with same date in 2019 following the further lifting of COVID restrictions on Monday permitting customers to eat indoors. Food sales jumped by almost a third, whilst drink sales were up by a fifth. “Monday’s trading was a sign of how much Britain’s hospitality industry has been missed,” said Jonny Jones, CGA’s MD in UK & Ireland. Long may the positive figures continue!
Let the games begin!
Further good news for pub goers this week as customers returning to the pub will be allowed to play indoor games such as pool and darts. Licensees who wish to permit their customers to play indoor games must however carry out a full risk assessment first, with frequent cleaning of pool sticks and darts between customer uses advised according to latest guidance published by the Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.