Eat out for half price in August

The UK is beginning to get back on its feet following a lengthy period of lockdown to tackle Covid-19. Pubs and restaurants were able to open their doors for the first time in 3 months over the weekend, which has been branded 'Super Saturday.'

Restrictions remain in place in relation to social distancing and face coverings, but the weekend seems to have been a success with people keen to get out and socialise for the first time in, what feels like, forever.

It's not enough. Guidelines state that establishments can run at a maximum of 50% capacity and, for some smaller businesses, those circumstances would cost them more than staying closed. There is a large corner of the sector that is yet to experience the beginning of the rebound.

There are also places that cannot open due to social distancing measures. Some restaurants have kitchens so small that those working their cannot physically stand 2m apart, let alone work. So, for them, it's an extended period of closure. An extended period with no income.

While the industry tries to stay positive, the outlook is bleak. But the government has stepped in.

The Mini-Budget

The UK's Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, has announced £40bn worth of economy boosting initiatives. These range from high street shopping vouchers, to green home improvement vouchers, to stamp duty relaxation.

Rishi Sunak [Image: Getty]

Rishi Sunak [Image: Getty]

Included in the budget is the plan to give the hospitality industry VAT relief of 75%. They will also be giving each household in the UK the opportunity to dine out in the month of August, for half price, in an initiative called Eat Out to Help Out.

This is an attempt to get people out and get the restaurant industry 'bustling again' although, with social distancing in place, it remains to be seen what the new measure of bustling is.

With most families out of pocket to some degree or another as a result of the pandemic, it's hoped this will be the encouragement needed to get them out and about, in a safe and cost effective way. The 50% discount will be made up by the government, ensuring that the trade is in no way out of pocket.

It's also hoped that this will boost morale and show people that, in what will be phase 3 of the lockdown lift, it is safe to get out and about in a sensible way, encouraging them to spend less time at home and more time in shops, restaurants, and other places that need a vital boost in income.

The initiative will run for the whole of August and is valid on all meals served on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays, at a maximum of £10 per head.

And no, they won't be picking up the booze tab!