Greggs pulls back on plans to re-open over crowd fears

Greggs has pulled back on plans to re-open its first sites to the public next week over fears it could attract crowds.

Last week, the Newcastle based bakery chain told staff it planned a phased re-opening of 20 North East stores. It was due to be a trial from May 4 for takeaway and delivery only.

Now, bosses say they will run the trial "behind closed doors" due to fears customers will flock to its stores in large numbers.

The reversal of the plan comes after rivals such as Pret A Manger have reopened a small number of sites for takeaway and delivery.

Meanwhile, other chains such as Burger King and KFC have reopened for delivery only.

Greggs had intended to open the 20 sites to see if it could operate effectively within the current social distancing guidelines.

Chief executive Roger Whitehouse previously said he hoped to open around 700 stores, including 150 franchise shops, with new operational measures in place from June 8.

It intended to then open all of its 2,050 stores by July 1, when the Government's current furlough support package is due to end.