More and more restaurant reopenings are happening as government restrictions due to COVID-19 are lifted in some countries. Businesses seek to answer the post-lockdown concerns of patrons and in this light, many establishments rethink the way they invite guests to dine-in, with appeal to protective equipment and social distancing measures.
One major retaurant reopening is that of popular Japanese-style hot pot in Bangkok, which happened in early May. Dubbed 'Penguin Eat Shabu,' the business has opened the doors of its Ari and Ratchapruek branches for patrons who want to dine-in. The restaurant has incorporated "zig-zagging barriers made from PVC pipes and plastic sheets" in order to maintain the safety of both staff and guests. Open to reservations only, the safety solution proves to be accessible in terms of price, as well.
Transparent Dining Barriers
Penguin Eat Shabu Boasts Safety Measures During Restaurant Reopening
Trend Themes
1. Protective Barriers - The use of PVC pipes and plastic sheets as dining barriers can inspire the creation of more affordable and creative options for other industries.
2. Post-lockdown Dining - More restaurants are rethinking dining arrangements to accommodate social distancing, which presents opportunities for innovative furniture and interior design solutions.
3. Reservation-only Dining - The implementation of reservation-only dining can lead to more customized and personalized dining experiences, as well as streamline the customer journey.
Industry Implications
1. Hospitality - With post-lockdown dining concerns, the hospitality industry should create safer accommodations for guests similar to the PVC pipe and plastic sheets used in 'Penguin Eat Shabu.'
2. Artificial Intelligence - AI can be used to help restaurants accurately predict guest numbers and manage reservations, preventing overcrowding and helping establishments maintain social distancing regulations.
3. Retail - Retail businesses can take inspiration from the PVC and plastic dining barriers when creating similarly protective yet visually appealing barriers to ensure staff and customer safety.