Costa plans for extensive reopening

The Coca-Cola owned coffee shop business says it will have over 1,100 of its c.2,700-strong estate reopen for takeaway and delivery within the next two weeks, having closed all sites back in March due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Teams at all reopened sites will be provided with PPE; hand sanitiser stations and Perspex screens around counter areas will be installed; and only contactless payment will be accepted.

There will also be designated pick-up points for delivery and mobile order collections, and floor signs placed inside and outside the stores to reflect current social distancing guidelines.

Costa begun a phased reopening of its sites in April with a focus on drive-thrus and takeaway-only locations, and by the end of May had managed to reopen just over 200 sites in total.

It has previously said that this measured approach has allowed the business to trial social distancing in its stores, implement enhanced hygiene procedures, and adapt operations to keep both staff and customers safe.

“We’re delighted to be able to share the news that by the end of June 1,100+ of our stores will re-open for take-away or delivery," says Costa Coffee CEO Jill McDonald.

"We have been overwhelmed by the positive feedback that we have received from our customers and are pleased to once again be able to serve them our signature, handcrafted coffee."