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Slice of New York restaurant in Sudbury adapts to coronavirus pandemic with new delivery and takeaway business model




The owner of a Sudbury restaurant has expressed his relief after remodelling his business in order to continue operating in the town during the coronavirus lockdown.

A Slice of New York in Friars Street stopped trading in March after the Government instructed that all non-essential businesses, including eateries, should close to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Shawn Dyer reopened the restaurant, which serves authentic New-York style pizza, in April, after establishing a delivery and takeaway food service.

Shawn Dyer is opening a pizza restaurant this week in Friars Street......PICTURE: Mecha Morton... .. (35382240)
Shawn Dyer is opening a pizza restaurant this week in Friars Street......PICTURE: Mecha Morton... .. (35382240)

“We had to change our hours of operation to reflect the fact that there was no lunch trade,” he said.

With social distancing measures in place, customers can collect their orders from outside the business.

“No one has to come inside the restaurant and our employees have been kept safe,” said Mr Dyer, from Acton.

Shawn Dyer is opening a pizza restaurant this week in Friars Street......PICTURE: Mecha Morton... .. (35382260)
Shawn Dyer is opening a pizza restaurant this week in Friars Street......PICTURE: Mecha Morton... .. (35382260)

Having experienced problems with sourcing ingredients, Mr Dyer was forced to explore other options to keep operating.

“I had to make some changes,” he said. “I found a supplier who was open all the time, but it meant having to collect the stock myself.”

Once the lockdown measures have been lifted, Mr Dyer plans to continue implementing his new business approach.

“We have become accustomed to it and have adapted,” said the father-of-five. “Now it’s just part of what we do; it’s definitely more efficient.”

Originally from New York, Mr Dyer, along with wife Fiona, owns two tennis clubs and a children’s play facility in America. All three are currently closed due to coronavirus.

“We have no idea when they can reopen,” he said.

Praising the loyalty of the community in the town, Mr Dyer said people had shown great support towards the business.

“We can count on certain orders coming in on specific days because they’re trying to support us, and like our product,” he said. “We are unbelievably appreciative.”