Hospitality industries could be served a fully funded app to support with social distancing

Northumberland based food & beverage businesses are invited to apply for an opportunity to benefit from a fully funded, bespoke mobile app compatible with Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

The app allows customers to book a table, order food and take payment directly, reducing contact with staff.

Delivered through the Northumberland Covid Business Response Programme (NCBRP) by BoxModel, eligible businesses will receive an app that is completely customisable to fit with the businesses brand and can be easily updated by the user to keep the menu up to date.

NCBRP is a new service for businesses that have been adversely affected by Covid-19. The Project is funded by the North of Tyne Combined Authority and delivered by Advance Northumberland on behalf of Northumberland County Council and the Northumberland Business Hub.  It has two elements - Business Advantage which can provide businesses with 12 hours of fully funded business coaching and Digital Advantage which focusses on giving businesses Digital tools to keep them trading.

With the announcement of national lockdown being made on Monday 4^th January 2021 meaning hospitality businesses in Northumberland must remain closed to the public for dining indoors, however businesses can still offer take-away services and with the app where the user can make their order, select a collection time, and pay without having to contact any member of staff directly, keeping to social distancing and ensuring safety.

North of Tyne Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Deputy Leader of North Tyneside Council Cllr Bruce Pickard said: “This is exactly the kind of forward thinking and innovation the North of Tyne Rural Growth Fund was set up to support.

 “We’re seeing every day the pressure this pandemic is putting on people’s lives and livelihoods, with our hospitality industry especially hard hit.

 “I’d urge all those running hospitality businesses to apply for this app. It will protect your customers, protect your staff, and make lockdown trading that bit easier.”

Cllr Richard Wearmouth, Chair of Advance Northumberland said “This is a great opportunity for businesses to ensure maximum safety to their staff and customers during the pandemic.

The Northumberland hospitality industry has really taken a hit this year, this app could really help businesses to continue to work safely.”

Business’ have until 5pm on Friday 22^nd January 2021 to register their interest. Please note that registering your interest does not automatically guarantee you will receive an app, an independent board will decide based on eligibility.

To find out more and receive a copy of the expression of interest form, please register at:

  https://northumberlandbusinessresponse.co.uk/