Buffets binned under TUI's reopening plan

The FTSE 250 travel company said the 100-point plan, including hygiene and distancing, would take effect in its own hotels and be "available" to joint venture and hotel partners.

TUI said buffets, a favourite feature of all-inclusive holidays, would be scrapped where possible and staff would ideally wear masks when serving food and drink. Restaurant capacity will be reduced and opening hours extended so that guests can sit at least 1.5 metres apart.

“Self-service offers such as buffets will be reduced to a minimum,” TUI said. “Wherever possible, food and beverages will be served to guests by staff wearing protective masks.”

Entertainment and activities will be limited to avoid close contact and large numbers of people taking part. Golf and tennis will be allowed but football competitions are out, TUI said.

Other measures include:

• Online check-in at many hotels
• Employees keeping at least 1.5 metres away from guests
• More disinfectant dispensers
• Deep cleaning before new guests, especially for items such as TV remote controls

TUI said it would bring in new training programmes for staff at its 380 own-brand hotels. At partner hotels an independent consultant will provide and monitor training. The company said its plan was meant to show it would operate responsibly if allowed to reopen.

Sebastian Ebel, TUI's executive board member responsible for holiday experiences, said: "With this concept we are demonstrating that we are a reliable partner for governments in the destinations when relaunching the tourism activities”

"With our group-wide, integrated health and safety management system, we can ensure that our hotels meet guests’ high expectations and offer the best possible protection against infections during these unusual times. We are laying the foundations for an agile and safe return to business."