D&D London and Corbin & King latest big names to close

D&D London and Corbin & King are the latest operators to close their doors amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Last night, D&D London announced the closure of all its 24 sites with immediate effect.

Acknowledging a “need to play our part” in the minimising the spread of COVID-19, the group has decided to close its restaurants in the UK – which include 20 Stories Manchester, Bluebird London and the German Gymnasium - New York and Paris. It has not said when it plans to re-open.

“It is a desperately sad day for us and for other UK restaurants who also face closure,” said Des Gunewardena, chairman and CEO.

“Our number one priority now is to work closely with government bodies to ensure that the welfare of our staff and their families is managed through this period of uncertainty. We hope the government steps up to the challenge.”

At the same time, restauranteurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King announced the closure of their seven London sites, which include The Wolseley, Brasserie Zédel and The Delaunay.

The group has said it will continue to pay its staff for the foreseeable future and is working with landlords and other stakeholders to protect staff and the company.

In a tweet last night, the pair called the move “inevitable” under the circumstances. “Our priority now is to look after our staff and ensure that we remain in the best possible shape, ready to re-open as soon as is possible,” they said.