Pret a Manger and Starbucks temporarily closing all UK stores due to coronavirus
PRET a Manger and Starbucks have become the latest chains to temporarily close their UK stores over coronavirus.
PM Boris Johnson last night ordered pubs, restaurants and cafes to close as Brits continued to ignore advice on avoiding public places.
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Both coffee chains could have chosen to stayed open, as businesses are still allowed to allowed to sell take-aways under the new restrictions.
But Pret revealed today it would be closing all 400 stores in the UK.
The company said it has already made a commitment to protecting jobs across the business and its intention is that no jobs will be lost because of the temporary closure.
In a message to customers posted on social media, Pret chief executive Pano Christou said: “I want to thank our amazing teams for serving you with so much passion and kindness over the recent weeks, including more than 100,000 NHS workers.
“Pret’s first value is Happy Teams, Happy Customers and my priority is always to protect our teams as much as we can.
“For this reason, we will be closing all our UK shops temporarily from this evening.
“We will of course ensure any excess food goes to those who need it most.
“We look forward to being a part of your daily lives again soon. Until then, stay healthy and look after each other.”
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Starbucks announced yesterday it would also be shutting its coffee shops after emergency virus measures.
The coffee giant said branches will be closed until further notice, as part of plans to protect both customers and staff.
Staff will be paid for the first four weeks with the company set to revise its pay structure after a month.
Meanwhile, John Lewis will be temporarily shutting all of its 50 shops at close of business for the first time in its 155 years.
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Johnlewis.com will continue to operate as normal, alongside Waitrose shops and waitrose.com.
Waitrose food offers within department stores at Watford, Southampton and Bluewater will also close.
Customers can choose to have orders delivered to their home, or to Click & Collect from their local Waitrose.
