Pubs to run information sessions for customers worried about virus prevention

Customers can learn about safety measures in place.

Kyloe Restaurant and Grill, The Rutland Hotel

A number of Edinburgh pubs have launched an initiative to educate nervous customers about the safety measures in place as they reopen following the Covid-19 lockdown.

During ‘Reassurance Hour’, customers will be able to book appointments at the premises to ask questions about social distancing policies and protective measures.

The initiative has been launched in pubs owned by the Signature Group, based in Edinburgh.

The appointments have opened this week, primarily at the Kyloe Restaurant, McLarens on the Corner and Cold Town House brewery.

The Signature Group came up with the idea following a survey which showed that one in four previously established customers would be unlikely to return to eating in restaurants, and that customers were concerned about social distancing and the risk associated with crowded spaces.

Signature Pub Group Director Nic Wood said: “There is no doubt that our world has changed hugely in the last year. And, while we are all delighted to be opening the doors of our venues again, we understand that some people are still nervous or unsure what to expect when they visit us again.

"We have listened to our customers concerns and have been working tirelessly to ensure that all our policies and procedures put the safety of our customers and staff at their heart so that everyone can feel safe and confident once again.

"The introduction of Reassurance Hour will let us answer any questions you may have about social distancing or health and safety and we really hope you pop in for a coffee and a nosey soon!”

The Signature group was founded by Nic Wood in 2003 with its first venue the Black Bull in the Grassmarket.

The group now owns 21 bars, with 700 staff members and venues in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, St Andrews and Bridge of Allan.

The group also introduced Cold Town, its first small-batch brewery, in 2018.

Customers can book a ‘reassurance appointment’ by calling the Signature Group central reservations line on 0131 656 3105.

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