According to a survey of 2,000 adults, almost 80% of respondents knew of at least one local business that had adapted their offering to takeaway or delivery as a result of being forced to close their operations.
The research, conducted by online training company High Speed Training, found that people were using these new services were because of their concerns about the survival of local businesses, with 15% of respondents saying they were keen to show support by purchasing ingredients and groceries directly from their local pub or restaurant.
People were also now relying on food takeaway and delivery services because
they were having difficulty finding stock in supermarkets, says the company.
“It is fantastic to see local communities coming together to support each other,” says High Speed Training hospitality specialist Sarah Taylor.
“Our research shows not only are members of the public keen to support the livelihoods of local people and businesses, but those same businesses are providing a much-needed comfort to people at home.”
“It is clear there is still an important role for local pubs, bars, cafés and restaurants at the heart of their communities.
Numerous eat-in hospitality businesses across the country have switched to offering takeaway or delivery or moved into food retail in recent weeks.