Restaurant and delivery groups join Government initiative to help drive vaccine uptake

Pizza Pilgrims says it is in discussion with the Government to offer one of its central London pizzeria sites that is yet to reopen as a location for drop-in vaccination clinics for both its teams and the public to receive quick and easy vaccines, throwing in a free slice of pizza for attendees on the day. 

"By making getting your jab as easy as grabbing a slice of pizza, hopefully we can help our teams and customers get both their first and second doses as easily and quickly as possible" says Thom Elliot, Pizza Pilgrims founder.

"We are lucky enough to have the space and locations that can help make this convenient for people, so are happy to help if we can." 

According to the Government, other incentives being discussed with businesses could include vouchers or discount codes for people attending pop up vaccine sites and booking though the NHS, social media competitions and promotional offers for restaurants.

Uber will be sending reminders to all users in August, encouraging them to get the vaccine, and will be offering discounted meals on Uber Eats for young adults who get the jab. 

"As cities open up, we all need to proceed with caution and ensure that all adults are vaccinated against Covid-19," says Jamie Heywood, Uber’s regional general manager for Northern and Eastern Europe.

"We’re proud to be working with the government on this important campaign to encourage everyone to get their jab."

The Government is set to release further details on partnerships related to the initiative in due course.

A total of 84.7 million vaccine doses have been administered in the UK, with 46.7 million people receiving a first dose (88.4%) and 37.9 million people receiving both doses (71.8%).

Around 67% of people aged 18-29 in England have already received a first dose of a vaccine.