One of Sunderland's first coffee shops reopens: See how they are trialling social distancing measures

An independent coffee shop in Sunderland is trialling social distancing measures as it opens for the first time in seven weeks.
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Grinder Coffee Co in Durham Road had only been open for six months when lockdown measures were announced in mid-March.

Although the new business, opposite University Metro station, has a takeout provision so could have remained open, owner Michael Curtis felt it wasn’t safe to do so and closed the shutters on his labour of love.

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During lockdown he used the time to research social distancing measures and equipment and, as restrictions are gradually being lifted, he opened for the first time since March on Monday, May 11.

Michael Curtis of Grinder Coffee Co in Durham Road which has reopened after lockdownMichael Curtis of Grinder Coffee Co in Durham Road which has reopened after lockdown
Michael Curtis of Grinder Coffee Co in Durham Road which has reopened after lockdown

Grinder is one of the first independent coffee shops in Sunderland to reopen and Michael says people have been appreciative of being able to buy a good cup of coffee.

“Being able to buy a cup of coffee is a small bit of normality for people, it’s something they recognise in a world that’s been turned upside down,” he explained. “It’s a part of every day life that we’ve always taken for granted, so people have really missed it.”

The shop’s range of coffees and home-made cakes are only available for takeout, with only two people allowed in the shop at one time.

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Other measures include queuing markers outside, a one-way system inside, plastic screens in front of the counter, contactless payment only and a collection station, instead of being handed the coffee, to further limit contact.

Social distancing measures are in place at Grinder Coffee Co. Pictured are members of the same household.Social distancing measures are in place at Grinder Coffee Co. Pictured are members of the same household.
Social distancing measures are in place at Grinder Coffee Co. Pictured are members of the same household.

There is also an online click and collect service available to reduce people’s time waiting in the shop.

Michael, who lives with his colleague so can work closely with him behind the counter, says he wanted to make sure the business was as safe as possible before opening and is trialling the methods with reduced opening hours of 9am to 2pm.

He said: “During the seven weeks of closure we worked on a blueprint of how we could feasibly open and everything is done within Government stipulations. The response has been great so far and manageable. People are respecting the restrictions and it’s not like the queues you see at the big chains.

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“It’s mostly people who live nearby, key workers or people who are passing during their walks.”

Nearby business Pati Cake Patisserie, in Tunstall Road, has also reopened its doors with social distancing measures in place.

Businesses have had to adapt to a new way of serving their customers during lockdown with many city businesses ramping up their delivery options . Others have come up with new ideas, such as The Saltgrass in Deptford which is selling mini casks so people can enjoy proper pints at home.

It comes as the Sunderland Echo is running our #SupportLocal campaign aimed at promoting the amazing things our local businesses are doing at this difficult time.

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If you know of ways local businesses have adapted during lockdown contact us on social media or email the newsdesk: [email protected]

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