McDonald’s to reopen 15 restaurants for delivery-only service

McDonald’s is to reopen a number of UK restaurants for delivery on May 13 after shutting down all sites due to the coronavirus lockdown.

The locations of the 15 restaurants will be announced next week.

The fast food chain has spent this week testing its operations behind closed doors in preparation to reopen sites.

Paul Pomroy, the chain’s boss for the UK and Ireland, said the tests proved “successful”, allowing the company to “slowly” start to serve customers again.

McDonald’s said it has incorporated feedback from staff after the tests and worked closely with the Government and trade bodies regarding its reopening plans.

All restaurants will be deep cleaned prior to reopening, with new safety measures such as Perspex screens and floor markings.

Staff will also receive protective equipment, such as non-medical grade face masks, and have their temperatures taken with “contactless thermometers” before shifts.

The chain said it will also introduce “social distancing measures for all delivery and service partners”, which include Uber Eats and Just Eat.

Restaurants will return with “much smaller teams” and a limited menu, but will not be serving breakfast, it said.

Mr Pomroy added: “When we return it will be different as we all adjust to this new normal.

“I want to apologise in advance if our first wave of reopened restaurants does not serve your area.

“Rest assured, we are working hard to reopen more restaurants, but I am adamant this must be at the right pace with the wellbeing of our employees, suppliers and customers front of mind.

“Slowly, but safely, we will return to towns and cities across the UK and Ireland and thank-you for your continued support as we work through this crisis.”

Earlier on Friday, Greggs pulled back on plans to reopen its first sites to the public next week over fears it could attract crowds.