With pub beer gardens, gyms and non-essential shops set to reopen on Monday (12 April), one boss looks to be putting himself in the running for gaffer of the year by giving all his staff the day off to make the most of it.
Chris Donnelly, chief executive of digital marketing company Verb Brands in London, wants his staff to enjoy themselves as England eases lockdown restrictions.
As well as giving them all a day off to have a bit of R&R, Donnelly also reckons it will give the economy a much-needed boost with his staff heading out to splash their cash at bars and shops.
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Speaking to the Daily Mail, Donnelly said: "It has been a horrid time for so many people across so many sectors.
"The pubs and shops are opening up after months and I just want employees to know how much they are appreciated and to enjoy this day for themselves, not spend it sat in the office.
"Landlords and high street retailers need a boost too so I'm happy for my lot to spend the day supporting these businesses.
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"And if they want to spend the day in bed - then good for them."
I don't know about you, but I'd be heading straight for that pub beer garden, because after what feels like forever we're in touching distance of our first pub-bought pint of 2021 as outdoor hospitality gets back underway.
But if your local doesn't have a beer garden, that doesn't necessarily mean it won't be able to start selling food and drink outdoors.
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick has asked local councils not to crack down on pubs and restaurants that choose to put seating outside and erect marquees in beer gardens as the industry plans to reopen around 12 April.
Jenrick said he intends to cut back on bureaucracy in order to maximise the benefits to pubs and restaurants that have been forced to remain closed for so long during the coronavirus pandemic.
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He said: "I'm determined that we don't let red tape get in the way of a great British summer.
"The planning changes we put in place last year have been a lifeline to many businesses and they're here to stay for the summer of 2021.
"We will be extending pavement licences for a further 12 months, making it easier and cheaper for pubs, restaurants and cafes to continue to make al fresco dining a reality with outside seating, tables and street stalls to serve food and drinks."
Featured Image Credit: PA/LinkedInTopics: UK News