South Yorkshire bakery chain Staniforths has delivered almost 1,000 packs of essential food items to customers during the coronavirus crisis.

At the start of the Covid-19 lockdown, the business closed eight of its 18 stores in central locations, as it expected footfall to be impacted.

It also introduced social distancing measures to adhere with government guidelines at its remaining 10 stores, its bakery, and head office. And it streamlined its product range, due to furloughing bakery team members.

Staniforths also launched a drop bag service, delivering initially to two areas around its main bakery. Priced £10.50, the bags contain a white sliced loaf, baps, tarts and three sausage rolls, plus essential groceries including milk and ham.

The service proved a “massive hit” with local consumers and has been extended to a wider area. Up to and including this Monday (27 April), Staniforths had delivered 948 bags to local people.

“Our customers are so thrilled with the service, that they are ordering weekly and spreading the word to their family and friends,” said a spokesperson for the company.

“They are finding the whole process so easy, from ordering the drop bags to receiving the deliveries – from a safe social distance – from our drivers.”

Staniforths has also started offering a ‘treat bag’ after an Easter version was a success, with the company delivering 182 drop bags and Easter treat bags on Good Friday alone.  Priced £10, the treat bag contains items such as scones, gingerbread men and cupcakes.

“Our teams in our shops, bakery, packing, office and our drivers are extremely committed to our company and are working selflessly every day to provide for our community,” added Staniforths.

Staniforths was founded by John Fredrick Staniforth in 1939. Lindsay Hans, granddaughter of John, is now the managing director of the business.

British Baker recently reported on how a number of businesses have launched delivery services during the coronavirus crisis.