An Aberdeen hospitality firm, which owns Soul, College and The Queen Vice among others, is to close its venues indefinitely tomorrow.
Owners said the decision was made in light of new government advice warning the public away from bars and restaurants.
PB Devco has announced its eight businesses in the Granite City will close to protect customers and staff from Covid-19.
The firm also owns So, Vovem Meat & Liquor, The Bieldside Inn, The Howff, and So…Zen.
It also employs around 250-300 staff, “the vast majority”, bosses said, who were paid hourly.
In a statement posted online, PB Devco said: “Unfortunately, during this difficult period we feel a responsibility to protect our community from possible further spread of COVID-19.
“So, in response to current government advice, and with the health and well-being of our staff, customers and wider community in mind, we have with a heavy heart made the decision to temporarily close all our venues from Tuesday March 17 until further notice.
“Thank you to all our customers for the support we have received so far, and to all our team members for coming in and working hard to keep the venues going while we navigate this period of uncertainty.”