McDonald’s is to shut all its restaurants in Britain and Eire as the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread.
The fast food empire originally closed its seating area but continued with a takeaway and drive-thru service.
It has now, however, decided to close all its 1,300 outlets from today.
In a statement, the company said:
“We have taken the difficult decision to close all McDonalds restaurants in the UK and Ireland by 7pm on Monday 23 March at the latest.
“This is not a decision we are taking lightly, but one made with the wellbeing and safety of our employees in mind as well as in the best interests of our customers.”
The company plans to work with local community groups to distribute its leftover food.
It comes two days after the government called on all restaurants, pubs and bars to close – however in his announcement Boris Johnson left the door open to those seeking to sell meals for home delivery.
