Morrisons becomes first supermarket to sell hot cafe takeaways

The cafes in 402 stores have been closed since March

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Morrisons has announced it will start selling 'supermarket takeaways' from its on-site cafes from Friday 19 June.

The supermarket has 402 cafes across the UK, which have been closed since March, but are now going to sell hot meals to customers for them to eat elsewhere.

Social distancing guidelines in England mean that restaurants, pubs and other hospitality venues are still not permitted to open.

But they are allowed to sell customers takeaway or delivery items to eat at another location.

The Morrisons meals on offer will include breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, from £1.95.

All food items will be prepared in the cafe and then packaged in cardboard takeaway boxes.

Customers will also be allowed to order in advance on a takeaway hotline number (0330 808 9733) to avoid crowding and social distancing problems in-store.

When calling customers will be asked to give their postcode, select a store and then give their order to cafe staff.

Customers are able to visit the cafe in-person to place an order but will have to wait 30 minutes for collection. Deliveroo is also available in some locations.

Marianne Jones, head of cafe operations at Morrisons, said: “Our customers love our cafes. Some dine with us a number of times a week and many have told us they’ve been waiting for their return.

“So we’ve been working behind the scenes to bring back some of our most popular dishes at great prices as we continue to feed the nation."

Other pubs and restaurants have been undertaking a staggered reopening, including arranging takeaway services where previously customers had to eat in.

Greene King pubs in London have opened 10 venues for customers to get takeaway meals, including a Sunday roast and fish and chips.

As well as following government guidance on social distancing, Greene King pubs were also implementing separate entrance and exits, a one-way system for customers, online payment and hand sanitiser in all pubs.

Some food outlets have had to adjust to a reduced menu in order for fewer staff to be working in kitchens and maintain social distancing; McDonald’s US has removed salads, bagels and yoghurts from its menu, as well as dessert items.