Caithness businesses among thousands of outlets signing up for Eat Out to Help Out
More than 3700 outlets across Scotland, including many in Caithness, have signed up for the UK government's Eat Out to Help Out scheme.
Restaurants, bars, cafés and other establishments that use the scheme will offer a 50 per cent reduction, up to a maximum of £10 per person, to diners who eat in during August on certain days.
Customers do not need a voucher as participating establishments will just remove the discount from their bill. Businesses reclaim the discounted amount through an online service, supported by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
Claims can be made weekly and will be paid into bank accounts within five working days.
The scheme is open to eligible establishments across the UK and can be used all day, every Monday to Wednesday, between August 3 and 31.
Businesses receive a window sticker to show they are taking part.
The scheme can be used by diners who order food and/or drinks for consumption on the premises. Alcohol is excluded from the offer.
Scottish secretary Alister Jack said: “Eat Out to Help Out is a fantastic scheme which will help Scotland’s hospitality businesses get back on their feet. I am very pleased that 3766 Scottish restaurants, bars and cafés have signed up.
"This is a great opportunity for people in Scotland to get together with friends and family in a safe environment and get up to 50 per cent off their bill.
“The UK Government is doing all it can to drive our economic recovery, and we want to see all sectors of our economy open again where it is safe to do so.”
The 3766 figure was correct as of Monday morning. This number relates only to businesses that have fewer than 26 outlets. The actual figure (including larger restaurant chains in Scotland) is higher.
An online restaurant finder allows people to search for participating outlets using a postcode.