One-metre distancing would give bars and restaurants the best chance of survival once lockdown is lifted, says BrewDog’s David McDowall.
BrewDog believes that its experience reopening sites in countries post-lockdown has shown that one-metre distancing is a practical solution for bars and restaurants.
The Scottish brewer has shared that its site in Olso (Norway) is back trading at 80% turnover following the lifting of lockdown measures. In line with local regulations, the site has implemented one-metre social distancing measures.
Speaking to Big Hospitality, BrewDog COO, McDowall, noted that the importance of the one-metre distancing, opposed to two, cannot be overlooked. He went on to say: “When we worked out how many bums on seats we could get when we reopened [in the UK] at two metre social distancing, we would operate at 40% capacity. We could probably Get to 70-75% of capacity with one-metre ruling in place. This is something we need to be very mindful of as we build the guidelines in the UK.”
BrewDog’s positive experience in other territories suggests that the public will be eager to return to bars and restaurants once lockdown measures are lifted.
It is expected the UK Government will impose two-metre distancing for UK hospitality businesses. This will be in line with the guidance in place for essential shops and services.
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