GVC to reopen 80% of Ladbrokes Coral betting shops in post-lockdown return
FTSE 100-listed operator to install “sneeze screens” while customers encouraged to ditch cash for contactless payments
GVC has pledged to reopen 2,450 of its Ladbrokes Coral betting shops in England and the Channel Islands from 15 June amid the softening of coronavirus lockdown measures in the UK.
The London-listed operator confirmed its remaining 550 retail premises will reopen as and when the UK’s devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland decide to ease lockdown restrictions.
GVC is awaiting further guidance from the administrations, as well as the government of the Republic of Ireland, as to when these shops will be permitted to reopen.
In the run up to the return, GVC has released a six-point plan designed to ensure all retail betting shops “meet or exceed” UK government and World Health Organization (WHO) safety guidelines.
“The guiding principle behind the plan is to ensure the health and wellbeing of all colleagues and customers,” GVC said in a statement.
CEO Kenny Alexander welcomed the reopening of the operator’s shops in England. He said: “Ever since the lockdown was introduced, we have been working tirelessly on a plan which will deliver the safest possible environment for both our customers and our people.
“I am confident we have achieved that and look forward to welcoming our customers back in the near future.”
GVC’s six-point plan includes a comprehensive review of all facilities, security systems and maintenance before shops reopen.
The operator also confirmed it would implement social distancing tools such as ‘sneeze screens’ and signs to provide directions for bettors, as well as provide social distancing training for all staff.
Health and safety measures will be extended to include additional hand sanitiser for all staff and customers, together with enhanced cleaning measures.
In addition, each shop will have a maximum customer occupancy level determined by the size and layout of the outlet to support social distancing measures. Consumers will be encouraged to utilise contactless payment methods to avoid contamination via cash.
Finally, as a means of supporting its staff during the reopening, GVC will make its employee assistance programme available to all staff, as well as a third-party mobile app Unmind to promote mental wellbeing.