Eligible forecourts urged to sign up online for Eat Out to Help Out initiative

The Eat Out to Help Out registration page has been launched online, allowing businesses to join the scheme announced last week by Rishi Sunak, Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Restaurants, bars, cafes and other establishments which use the scheme will offer a 50% reduction, up to a maximum of £10 per person, to all diners who eat and/or drink-in any Monday to Wednesday, between 3 and 31 August

Customers do not need a voucher as participating establishments will just remove the discount from their bill. Businesses simply reclaim the discounted amount through an online service, supported by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Claims can be made on a weekly basis and HMRC says they will be paid into bank accounts within five working days.

Businesses will receive a window sticker to show they are using the scheme and can download promotional items.

A searchable restaurant finder tool will be available to the public before the scheme launches on 3 August.

The scheme can be used by diners who order food and/or drinks for consumption on the premises. Alcohol is excluded from the offer.

Rishi Sunak said: “Restaurants and other eligible establishments are now able to support jobs by signing up to a place on the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme.

“HMRC’s quick and easy registration page will soon have you on your way to welcoming back your customers with discounted dining on every Monday to Wednesday throughout August, with a simple process to reclaim these discounts back from the Government each week.”

Jim Harra, chief executive and first permanent secretary of HMRC, said: “The hospitality industry is among the sectors worst affected by COVID-19. The Eat Out to Help Out Scheme will deliver support to around 130,000 businesses, including restaurants, cafes and bars serving food and drink, helping to protect 1.8 million jobs across the UK.

“Registering is easy, and we urge businesses to sign up early so they are ready to use the scheme when it starts on 3 August.

“Businesses can find information about the scheme and how to register online.”

Businesses can register for the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme if they:

• · sell food that is intended for consumption on the premises when purchased;
• · provide their own dining area or share a dining area with another establishment for eat-in meals;
• · have registered as a food business with the relevant local authority on or before 7 July.

Businesses can register to be part of the scheme online