Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Return of the Mac
FAST food giant Mcdonald’s reopened two restaurants yesterday.
Its drive-thrus in Bangor and Newtownards, Co Down, are serving for the first time since lockdown.
The move is part of a phased reopening of all drive-thru restaurants across the UK this week.
With staff adjusting to new procedures to enable safe working, things may take a little longer – and high demand is anticipated.
A Mcdonald’s spokesperson said: “As employees and the business adapt to a new way of working, we would like to thank customers for their continued support and patience.
“More than 1,000 Mcdonald’s restaurants will be open in the UK and Ireland this week, either for drive-thru or delivery.
“Restaurants opening will be published each day and can be found on our restaurant locator.”
Mcdonald’s and its franchisees say they are working closely with local authorities and the police and may determine it is necessary to close drive-thru lanes if queues cause disruption at busier sites or put employees or customers at risk.
To help create a safe experience for everyone, the company’s has enacted a number of changes.
Social distancing has been introduced in the kitchens and service areas to help create a safe working environment.
Perspex screens will be at drivethru windows and employees will wear protective equipment. Screens and floor markings will be in specific areas in the restaurant and kitchen.
All employees will be asked to confirm they are fit and able to work and contactless thermometers will be used to take staff temperatures on arrival at work for every shift.
The chain said it will ensure deliveries with couriers are contactless.
Restaurants will return with smaller teams, offering a limited menu and operating reduced hours.
The chain is encouraging spend at drive-thrus and
Mcdelivery to be capped at £25 per order and customers are encouraged to pay by contactless payment methods.