Similarly to other high street operators, Subway announced the complete closure of its estate back in late March as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic.
However, in recent weeks the chain says a number of sites have quietly reopened to support and serve key workers and hospital staff; and to test the viability of reopening on a larger scale while ensuring both staff and customers are protected.
As a result of those tests, Subway says it has now Subway has implemented a number of measures including directional signage to direct social distancing; enhanced hygiene practices; and PPE equipment for staff.
“Everybody in our Subway family and the wider communities they serve, has shown great resilience in adapting to these challenging times that we currently find ourselves in,” says Colin Hughes, country director for Subway UK & Ireland.
“We are extremely grateful for their ongoing support in anticipation of this next phase of our gradual reopening, which will enable us to continue to serve our communities and frontline workers, who have helped us all so much in recent weeks.
“We have slowly and safely introduced a new store operating framework that will be rolling out across stores to protect guests, our teams, delivery drivers and our suppliers.
“The weeks and months ahead will continue to be challenging for everyone and Subway will play its part in supporting the new normal whatever that may look and feel like."