Tokyo bar uses 'fish bowl' protection screen to lure back virus-wary clients
A bar in Tokyo's upscale Ginza district has installed fish bowl-like screens created to protect against coronavirus transmission, aiming to lure back clients worried about the dangers of COVID-19.
The Jazz Lounge En Counter bar reopened in late June, having shut down for many months after the government declared a nationwide state of emergency in April.
But with earnings down 70% to 80% compared with pre-pandemic amounts, the bar decided to step up efforts to make sure customers feel safer.
"When we do not take firm steps we would not be reacting to customers' requests. And they would not visit us because they are concerned," said manager Katsutoshi Iwazaki.
The conical, clear acrylic screens - that were demonstrated to Reuters by bar staff on a current trip - hang from the ceiling and envelop the customers' head and shouldersacting as a barrier between them along with other drinkers, in addition to servers. Workers said they, too, felt more protected.
"I can not speak to them (customers) safely if there's a risk of droplet infection. However, I feel really safe now with this step," said 27 year-old team member Mako Aoki.
The Jazz Lounge En Counter bar reopened in late June, having shut down for many months after the government declared a nationwide state of emergency in April.
But with earnings down 70% to 80% compared with pre-pandemic amounts, the bar decided to step up efforts to make sure customers feel safer.
"When we do not take firm steps we would not be reacting to customers' requests. And they would not visit us because they are concerned," said manager Katsutoshi Iwazaki.
The conical, clear acrylic screens - that were demonstrated to Reuters by bar staff on a current trip - hang from the ceiling and envelop the customers' head and shouldersacting as a barrier between them along with other drinkers, in addition to servers. Workers said they, too, felt more protected.
"I can not speak to them (customers) safely if there's a risk of droplet infection. However, I feel really safe now with this step," said 27 year-old team member Mako Aoki.
