Consumers signal overwhelming approval for measures put in place by pubs, restaurants and bars

Almost half of people who have visited pubs, restaurants and bars in the last two weeks have said the experience felt "different", but 94% said they were happy with the safety steps put in place and an overwhelming 96% were likely to recommend a visit.

Responses to the We Hear You survey, put together by CGA, UKHospitality and Yumpingo, have aimed to identify ways to increase consumer confidence and footfall.

Of the 4,866 customers who provided feedback, 52% felt their experience was not compromised by safety precautions. Of those that felt their experience was compromised, 88% understood that the precautions were necessary.

The results showed a consumer desire for safety measures to be in place, with 77% of diners stating that they considered the precautionary measures being taken before visiting a venue, while nearly half admitted to pre-visit nerves.

The majority of those who have eaten out since restrictions were lifted have visited places they know well, with just 14% of consumers trying new places.

Karl Chessell, director of food and retail at CGA, said: "The early results indicate that the industry is taking the right steps to increase hygiene standards and effectively communicate them to guests and will be particularly important in generating word of mouth about the safety of venues, with nearly all survey respondents now very likely or likely to recommend venues to family or friends."