Local cafes change to take away amidst virus concerns

SEVERAL Toowoomba cafes have changed how they operate amidst fears surrounding Covid-19.

A coffee.

SEVERAL Toowoomba cafes have changed how they operate amidst fears surrounding Covid-19.

The Bakers Duck, Ground Up Espresso and Emerge all took to social media in the last day to announce the changes.

A spokesperson for Emerge said the store had new temporary opening hours, from 8am to 1pm Tuesday to Sunday.

"We've taken some serious measures to help minimise the risk of infection to Covid-19," the spokesperson said.

"We will be operating as we as a takeaway-style cafe temporarily. 

"Please note you are still welcome to dine in and using limited tables with a minimum distance of 1.5 metres.

"Order on Ubereats from 8am or drop into the cafe for a takeaway style brekky or lunch. We've got your health in mind as we do business moving forward."

The Baker's Duck and Ground Up Espresso have both also introduced similar measures.

"Collectively, our venues host thousands of people each week," the cafes said in a joint statement.

"So, (from today), we will be converting to a takeaway only model.

All food and beverages including cutlery will be served as takeaway.

"This will go a long way to reduce risk of transmission."

Customers can still eat their food, in the takeaway packages, in the cafes, though there will be reduced seating and about 1.5 metres space between each table.

"This is a step forward for public health, and a step backwards for our impact on the environment," the statement read.

"We will therefore make sure all packaging is biodegradable, compostable, recyclable. We will provide large and convenient recycling bins for customer use at each venue.

"We also hope that if enough businesses take similar action early enough, Toowoomba could potentially avoid the brunt of this virus and return to a fully functioning economy sooner."

Is your cafe, restaurant or business having to make changes because of the Coronavirus outbreak? Let us know in the comments below or by emailing [e-mail].

Originally published as Local cafes change to take away amidst virus concerns