As the hospitality industry faces the brunt of complete/partial lockdown amid Coronavirus outbreak, restaurants around the world offer special takeaways and delivery services. By Tanvi Jain
1. India
McDonald’s India has launched contact-less delivery, so that food can reach customers without being touched with bare hands, and delivered safely keeping in mind adequate social distancing measures. Right from the one who assembles the food, to the one who packs, and then the person who delivers it, won’t touch the food with bare hands. In fact, after delivering the sealed packet, the delivery boy will remain at a safe distance as the customer takes the food.
Similar measures have been taken by food delivery apps Zomato and Swiggy as well, which include telling customers to let the delivery boy leave the package at the doorstep, and also providing financial assistance to all its carriers.
And, in a first-of-its-kind partnership, ITC has tied up with Jubilant FoodWorks, the master franchisee of Domino’s Pizza chain for door delivery. Essentials in combo packs that include ITC owned Ashirvad atta and spices will be available for order under the ‘Domino’s Essential’ menu, which will be delivered through zero-contact delivery.
2. The United States Of America
Many restaurants across different parts of America have offered takeout-only option in light of the Coronavirus pandemic. In New York, for example, most bars, cafes and restaurants have shut down dine-in arrangements, and are offering only takeout and delivery food options. Governors of California , Massachusetts, and Pennsylvanian have ordered all their restaurants to suspend dine-in services.
3. The United Kingdom
The UK Government has granted permission to pubs and restaurants to operate as takeaways. The Downing Street has also assured to relax planning rules for restaurants and pubs during the Coronavirus outbreak. However, the measures will be applicable only to hot food and drinks, whereas alcohol will remain subject to license laws. Fast-food giant McDonald’s has also decided to shut down all its UK restaurants and provide only takeaway and drive-thru services.
4. Ireland
Restaurants across Ireland have introduced takeaway menus, home delivery services and contactless payment methods. Many have been offering meals at subsidised rates as well, in order to keep their business running at a time when many eateries have been left deserted due to lack of customers. Many Dublin based restaurants that never had takeaway service are switching to this method for the first time. They are even adding specific dishes to the menu that can travel well.
5. Australia
Restaurants across Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide have switched to takeout or delivery services. Some are even delivering alcohol without any additional charge. Many are offering huge discounts upon ordering delivery, with the food being packed in vacuum-sealed containers. While some are completely turning into takeaway restaurants only, some where there is still dine-in available are coming up with distance-dining option.
Related: Everything You Need To Know About Travel Advisories Around Coronavirus
