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Norwich’s Eat Out to Help Out Scheme

Norwich’s Eat Out to Help Out Scheme

After an incredibly quiet spring and summer, the Chancellor’s recent Eat Out to Help Out scheme saw millions of diners return to the UK’s cafes, bars and restaurants. The scheme, which gives customers 50% off their bill when they eat in a participating restaurant, has seen a huge uptake with 64 million discounts claimed in just the first three weeks. 

Norwich, like many towns and cities in the UK, has a large number of establishments taking part in the scheme. From chain restaurants like Bill’s to independent eateries like the Cosy Club, diners in the city are spoilt for choice when it comes to claiming their bargain meal. 

The impact of Eat Out to Help Out in Norwich 

This burst of economic activity has had a big impact on Norwich businesses. Uptake has been strong across the city. The scheme has given many Norwich bars, cafes and restaurants a much-needed lifeline. Some businesses have benefited so much from Eat Out to Help Out. Some have extended their participation well into September, giving diners plenty of opportunities to enjoy a cut price meal. 

New restrictions to come into force 

However, seeing the recent Covid-19 restrictions return within the last few days, the momentum Norwich businesses have enjoyed may well be lost. Many business owners are worried they’ll be unable to make it through the winter, especially if the second wave is as bad as some experts are predicting. 

In Norwich, infection rates have been slowly creeping up. This is partly due to a spike in positive cases at Banham Poultry. Breckland, Great Yarmouth, North Norfolk and South Norfolk have also seen infections start to increase. 

The new restrictions which are now in force are limiting groups to just six people in England, with variations to the rules in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. This will apply both inside and outside and will affect the way we enjoy the city’s establishments. 

Commercial opportunities 

If these new restrictions are in place for a number of months, it could force some businesses to close. A result of this may be an increase in commercial opportunities both for investors and local business owners. 

Business owners in Norwich that are forced to close their companies may be able to sell their freehold. They could even develop their property into residential accommodation. The Government recently announced planning laws would be relaxed in order to make it easier for city centre properties to be converted into residential units. Taking advantage of these relaxed regulations could help struggling business owners make the best of a difficult situation. Furthermore, taking their first step along a new career of property development. 

If you’re a business owner in Norwich looking for a new opportunity, or if you’re an investor looking for exciting developments in the area, we can help. Explore our site or get in touch with a member of our expert team today.

Norwich's Eat Out to Help Out Scheme