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McDonald’s has said it is hoping to reduce the rent it pays to landlords as it slowly begins reopening its branches.
The fast food chain closed its doors on 22 March after the government outlined strict social distancing measures because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The firm announced earlier this week it was going to trial deliveries from 15 outlets later this month, as the COVID-19 lockdown continues.
McDonald’s says it has opened dialogue with some of its landlords
A limited menu will be in place and breakfast options will not be available for the time being to allow smaller teams to follow social distancing guidelines in the kitchens.
But as other businesses have raised concerns about their financial future following closures of more than a month, McDonald’s said it has opened discussions with its landlords over its rent.
A spokesman told Sky News in a statement: “Despite restaurants being closed, we have continued to pay rent in full and have been very clear that we will continue to meet our obligations to landlords across the McDonald’s estate.”
I added: “Given the unprecedented situation and impact it has had on the business, we have opened dialogue with some of our landlords to discuss how they might offer support on rent and service charges for a short period due to our restaurants not trading.”
As part of its plans to reopen, McDonald’s has announced how it intends to protect its staff.
Perspex screens and floor markings have been introduced in specific areas of the restaurants, while protective equipment, including non-medical grade face masks, will be given to employees.
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Each worker will also be asked if they are fit to work and will have their temperatures taken before starting each shift.
It comes as earlier this week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK had now passed the peak of the pandemic, and promised to lay out his details for an exit strategy from the lockdown in the coming days.
